China has spotlighted its J-10C fighter jet in a state television documentary following its reported use by Pakistan in a recent air engagement with India.
The broadcast comes shortly after PAF allegedly used J-10C jets to shoot down several Indian fighter aircraft, including three Rafales, during a skirmish over Kashmir on May 7.
According to Chinese state-run CCTV, this marked the first confirmed combat success for the J-10CE — the export version of the advanced J-10C.
The report claimed the aircraft had downed enemy jets without suffering losses, showcasing its effectiveness in real-world conflict.
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Pakistan’s Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, informed Parliament that the J-10C jets played a critical role in the incident.
Although a French official acknowledged the loss of one Indian-operated Rafale, the Indian government has not commented on the matter.
The CCTV documentary also traces the J-10’s origins to the early 1980s, when China aimed to close its technological gap with Western and Soviet air forces.
The design was developed by Song Wencong of the Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group. The J-10 first flew in 1997 and entered China’s air force by 2003.
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Equipped with AESA radar, reduced radar signature, and long-range PL-15 missiles, the J-10C is now gaining international attention.
The aircraft is currently being showcased at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition in Malaysia.
China remains Pakistan’s top defence supplier, accounting for 81% of its military imports from 2020 to 2024, including the J-10C and the JF-17 Thunder.