China's J-10 'Dragon' Fighter Proves Its Worth in India-Pakistan Aerial Encounter

China's J-10 'Dragon' Fighter Makes Its Mark in India-Pakistan Aerial Showdown

China’s Chengdu J-10 "Vigorous Dragon" fighter jet has reportedly demonstrated its combat capabilities for the first time during an aerial engagement between India and Pakistan, marking a significant milestone for China’s military aviation exports. According to reports, the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) deployed the advanced J-10C variant in a dogfight with Indian aircraft, showcasing the jet’s performance in an actual conflict scenario. This development not only highlights the growing strategic partnership between China and Pakistan but also signals China’s expanding role as a major arms supplier in contested regions.  

The J-10, developed by China’s Chengdu Aerospace Corporation, has been a key component of Beijing’s efforts to modernize its air force and compete with Western and Russian-made fighters in the global market. Pakistan, a long-standing ally of China, began inducting the J-10C into its fleet in 2022, positioning it as a critical asset to counter India’s more advanced Rafale jets and Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighters. The recent skirmish, which reportedly took place near the disputed Kashmir region, provided the J-10C with its first real-world test, where it was used to intercept Indian aircraft. Early assessments suggest that the jet’s advanced avionics, radar systems, and weaponry performed effectively, reinforcing its reputation as a capable multirole fighter.  

One of the J-10C’s most notable features is its AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) radar, which offers superior detection and tracking capabilities compared to older radar systems used by some of India’s aircraft. Additionally, the jet is armed with the PL-15 beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile, giving it a significant edge in long-range engagements. The domestically developed WS-10B turbofan engine further enhances the aircraft’s agility and combat endurance, making it a formidable opponent in both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions.  

The successful deployment of the J-10C in live combat carries broader implications for China’s defense exports. By proving its effectiveness in a high-stakes environment, the fighter could attract interest from other nations seeking advanced yet cost-effective alternatives to Western and Russian jets. For Pakistan, the J-10C serves as a crucial counterbalance to India’s military modernization efforts, particularly as New Delhi continues to integrate Rafale fighters into its arsenal.  

This incident underscores China’s growing influence in global defense markets and its ability to supply capable military hardware to allied nations. As regional tensions between India and Pakistan persist, the J-10’s role in future confrontations could further shape the dynamics of aerial warfare in South Asia.  

Source: [Financial Times](https://www.ft.com/content/ff46ca13-a64d-4ba1-833e-1bb348880aec)