China Showcases J-10C Fighter Jet Capabilities after Successful Deployment by Pakistan

Strategic Insights -

The J-10C advanced fighter jet, manufactured by China, has been showcased through a documentary broadcast on Chinese state-run CCTV, highlighting its origins and accomplishments. The documentary comes at a time when the aircraft was successfully deployed by Pakistan against India, with reports suggesting that the J-10C shot down Indian fighter jets during recent tensions between the nuclear-armed neighboring countries. The J-10C aircraft is a single-engine, multi-role fighter equipped with advanced Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, low radar cross section, and long-range PL-15 missiles.

Key Takeaways:

  • The development of the J-10C began in the 1980s, with the design of a new type of fighter jet created in 1982 by Song Wencong, the main designer of the 611 Institute, now known as the Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group.
  • The first model of the J-10 was completed in 1997, described as "a miracle in the history of air defence".
  • The J-10C aircraft is equipped with advanced Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, low radar cross section, advanced avionics, and long-range PL-15 missiles.
  • The aircraft was inducted into China's air force in 2003, with its most advanced version being exported to Pakistan.
  • China is the largest arms supplier to Pakistan, accounting for 81% of Pakistan's defence imports from 2020 to 2024.
  • Pakistan buys not only the J-10C but also the PL-15 missile and JF-17 Thunder combat aircraft from China.
  • The J-10CE, an export version of the J-10C, has reportedly achieved its first combat success by shooting down foreign aircraft in a real battle.
  • China's mastery of advanced aerodynamics, flight control systems, and turbofan engines was achieved through the development of the J-10C.

Statistics:

  • 81%: The percentage of Pakistan's defence imports from China from 2020 to 2024.
  • 1997: The year the first model of the J-10 aircraft was completed.
  • 2003: The year the J-10C aircraft was inducted into China's air force.
  • 2020-2024: The time period during which China supplied 81% of Pakistan's defence imports.
  • 611 Institute: The current name of the Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group, where the J-10C aircraft was designed.

Sources:

  • CCTV documentary (date unspecified)
  • Global Times (date unspecified)
  • French official (unspecified)
  • Chinese military report on CCTV (date unspecified)
  • Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar (unspecified)