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China’s Chengdu J-10C Fighter Jet: Advanced Capabilities and Recent Use by Pakistan



The Chengdu J-10C is a state-of-the-art, single-engine, multirole fighter jet developed by China’s Chengdu Aircraft Industry Corporation (CAC) and currently one of the most advanced fourth-generation fighters in the world. It has recently gained international attention due to its operational deployment by Pakistan in the ongoing regional tensions with India, marking a significant milestone in Pakistan’s air force modernization.


Technical Overview

The J-10C is an evolution of the earlier J-10 variants, featuring major upgrades in avionics, stealth, and weaponry. It measures approximately 16.9 meters in length with a wingspan of 9.8 meters and a height of 5.7 meters. The aircraft has a maximum takeoff weight of around 19,227 kilograms, supported by an internal fuel capacity of 4,950 liters and additional external drop tanks for extended range.


Powered by a domestically produced WS-10B afterburning turbofan engine, the J-10C can generate up to 144 kN of thrust, enabling it to reach speeds of Mach 1.8 and operate at altitudes up to 18,000 meters. The engine incorporates thrust vectoring technology, which significantly enhances the jet’s maneuverability, allowing it to perform complex aerial maneuvers that can outmatch many adversaries.


Avionics and Stealth Features

One of the J-10C’s standout features is its advanced avionics suite. It is equipped with an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar capable of detecting targets over 50 kilometers away, providing superior situational awareness and electronic warfare capabilities. The aircraft’s glass cockpit is AI-assisted and supports helmet-mounted displays, improving pilot responsiveness and target acquisition.


Though not a stealth aircraft in the strictest sense, the J-10C incorporates quantum anti-radar coatings and redesigned air intakes to reduce its radar cross-section, enhancing survivability in contested airspace. Noise reduction and heat signature management further contribute to its stealth profile, making it a difficult target for enemy radar and infrared tracking systems.


Weapons and Combat Role

The J-10C is highly versatile, capable of carrying a wide array of weapons on its 11 hardpoints. These include air-to-air missiles such as the long-range PL-15, precision-guided bombs, ship-targeting missiles, and other guided munitions. This flexibility allows the J-10C to perform multiple roles, from air superiority and interception to ground attack and maritime strike missions.


Comparison with Western Fighters

Often compared to the American F-16 Fighting Falcon, the J-10C matches or exceeds many of its capabilities in terms of radar technology, avionics, and maneuverability. While the F-16 boasts a slightly higher top speed (Mach 2.0 vs. Mach 1.8), the J-10C’s modern AESA radar and thrust vectoring engine give it a competitive edge in dogfights and beyond-visual-range engagements.


Recent Operational Use by Pakistan

Pakistan’s acquisition and deployment of the J-10CE export variant have marked a significant boost to its air force capabilities. The jet was actively used in recent skirmishes with India, demonstrating its operational readiness and combat effectiveness. This deployment not only underscores the growing defense partnership between China and Pakistan but also signals a shift in regional air power dynamics.


Pakistan’s use of the J-10CE has been described as a “game changer” by defense analysts, given the aircraft’s advanced sensor suite and weapon systems, which provide Pakistan with enhanced tactical options against adversaries equipped with Western-origin fighters.


Strategic and Export Implications

China is aggressively marketing the J-10CE to other countries seeking cost-effective yet capable fighter jets. Besides Pakistan, nations such as Bangladesh and Egypt have shown interest, attracted by the J-10C’s balance of modern technology and affordability.


The J-10C’s success in regional conflicts and its growing export footprint reflect China’s ambitions to expand its influence in the global defense market and reshape aerial combat standards beyond traditional Western dominance.

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