Chinese J-10C fighter gains spotlight after shooting down Rafales in India-Pakistan conflict (X @PakStartup)
The Chinese fighter Chengdu J-10C gained attention after being used by the Pakistan Air Force to shoot down Indian aircraft during a conflict in Kashmir.
Among the targets were French Rafale fighters, MiG-29s, and SU-30s. Although India has not confirmed all losses, French intelligence sources admitted the downing of at least one Rafale.
Developed in the 2000s as a response to the American F-16, the J-10C was exported to Pakistan, a country that today has about 80% of its military arsenal coming from China.
Designed to be agile and versatile, the J-10C has undergone several upgrades over the years. The current version features an AESA radar, Chinese WS-10 engines, and the capability to carry long-range missiles, guided bombs, and anti-ship weaponry. The fighter is considered by experts to be comparable to the F-16, with advantages in certain combat scenarios, such as the use of longer-range missiles. Its technology combines Israeli and Russian influences, which contributed to its advanced performance.
Although it is not China’s most modern fighter— a title held by the J-20 — the J-10C may become the most commercially viable. It reaches speeds close to Mach 1.8 and uses weaponry that can reach Mach 5, although exported versions have reduced capabilities.
After combat use, the fighter’s manufacturer’s shares rose more than 50%, indicating market optimism and increasing Chinese competitiveness against Western manufacturers.
Source: UOL | Photo: X @PakStartup | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
