ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Air Force’s deployment of Chinese-made J-10Cmultirole fighters during Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos in May 2025 marked awatershed moment in modern aerial warfare. In response to India’s OperationSindoor missile strikes, Pakistan launched retaliatory operations thatincluded intense air engagements over disputed border regions. OfficialPakistani statements claimed the J-10C, armed with advanced PL-15beyond-visual-range missiles, downed multiple Indian Air Force platforms,including Rafale, Su-30MKI, MiG-29, and Mirage-2000 jets. This encounterrepresented the first real-world combat test of an indigenous Chinesefighter against a mix of Western and Russian-origin aircraft, challenginglong-held assumptions about the inferiority of Chinese platforms inhigh-intensity scenarios. The operation concluded with a ceasefire, but thereported outcomes ignited widespread debate among defense analystsregarding technological parity and export viability.
Prior to this conflict, the J-10C, an upgraded variant of the ChengduAircraft Corporation’s Vigorous Dragon series, had been viewed primarily asa cost-effective alternative to Western fighters. Equipped with an activeelectronically scanned array radar, canard-delta wing design for superiormaneuverability, and integration with long-range missiles, the aircraftoffered 4.5-generation capabilities at a fraction of the cost ofcompetitors like the Rafale or F-16. However, skepticism persisted due tothe absence of verified combat experience against advanced adversaries. Theengagements during Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos provided that validation,with Pakistan’s No. 15 Squadron Cobras, operating from PAF Base Minhas,credited with several shootdowns using PL-15 missiles fired from standoffdistances. Reports indicated that electronic warfare integration andnetwork-centric operations enhanced the J-10C’s effectiveness, allowing itto engage targets beyond visual range while minimizing exposure.
The aerial successes prompted an immediate reassessment of Chinese militaryaviation on the global stage. Defense analysts noted that the J-10C’sperformance demonstrated breakthroughs in sensor fusion, missilekinematics, and resilience against jamming, attributes previouslyassociated more with Western systems. In China, state media highlighted theachievement as evidence of maturing indigenous technology, shiftingnarratives from imitation to innovation. Internationally, the incident ledto dips in Dassault Aviation’s share prices amid concerns over Rafalevulnerability, while boosting confidence in Chinese exports. Militaryobservers emphasized that modern air combat increasingly favorsbeyond-visual-range engagements over traditional dogfights, where factorslike radar range, missile guidance, and electronic countermeasures playdecisive roles. The J-10C’s reported zero losses in these clashes furtherunderscored its operational maturity.
Post-conflict, interest in the J-10C surged among several nations seekingaffordable yet capable multirole platforms. Countries in the Middle Eastand North Africa, facing budget constraints and diversification needs,expressed keen procurement interest. Saudi Arabia, Algeria, and Egyptemerged as prominent prospects, with discussions focusing on the aircraft’scompetitive pricing—estimated at $40-50 million per unit—and its proventrack record. Egypt, already diversifying suppliers with acquisitions fromRussia and France, viewed the J-10C as a strategic addition to balance itsfleet. Algeria, with existing Chinese defense ties including drones andmissiles, considered it for air superiority enhancements. Saudi Arabiaexplored options amid regional security dynamics, potentially integratingthe jet alongside other platforms. These inquiries reflect broader trendswhere nations prioritize cost-effectiveness, technological independence,and reduced reliance on Western export restrictions.
The export momentum builds on Pakistan’s role as the launch customer forthe J-10CE export variant, with deliveries accelerating since 2022. Bymid-2025, the Pakistan Air Force had operationalized multiple squadrons,integrating the aircraft into its doctrine emphasizing long-rangeengagements and synergy with systems like the JF-17. The combat validationnot only elevated the J-10C’s reputation but also positioned China as aformidable player in the global fighter market. Analysts predict thatsustained interest could lead to additional contracts, particularly inregions wary of geopolitical dependencies. While independent verificationof exact shootdown numbers remains contested, the episode undeniablyaltered perceptions, proving that Chinese systems can compete effectivelyagainst established platforms in contested environments.
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This development carries implications for regional air power balances andglobal defense procurement strategies. As more countries evaluate theJ-10C, the focus shifts to after-sales support, integration capabilities,and long-term reliability. The Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos engagements thusserve as a benchmark, illustrating how real-world performance can driveexport success and reshape strategic calculations worldwide.
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