ISLAMABAD: The Chengdu J-10C fighter jet, operated by China’s People’sLiberation Army Air Force Bayi Aerobatic Team, delivered a captivatingdisplay at the 10th Singapore Airshow, captivating audiences with precisionaerobatics and highlighting Beijing’s growing aerospace prowess. Theperformance, featuring six J-10C aircraft in tight formations releasingvibrant red, yellow, and blue smoke trails during low-altitude flypasts,underscored the jet’s agility and advanced capabilities amid regionalinterest in Chinese military hardware.
The event, held at Changi Exhibition Centre from early February 2026,marked the J-10C’s debut in Singapore since the team’s transition to thisupgraded variant. The Bayi Aerobatic Team executed complex maneuversincluding steep turns, climbing sequences, synchronized rolls, and asix-aircraft formation barrel roll, demonstrating exceptional pilot skilland aircraft reliability. These displays aimed to showcase operationalsafety, precision flying, and the jet’s enhanced flight control systems topotential international buyers.
The J-10C, a 4.5-generation single-engine multi-role combat aircraftdeveloped by Chengdu Aircraft Corporation, features advanced avionics,improved maneuverability, and some stealth characteristics. Its maximumspeed reaches Mach 2.2, with a high climb rate and robust thrust from itsengine, enabling dynamic aerobatic routines. The aircraft’s design allowsfor tighter formations and visually striking smoke effects, elevating thespectacle and emphasizing technological maturity.
Recent reports have elevated the J-10C’s profile globally, particularlyfollowing its export variant J-10CE’s reported role in a 2025 borderconflict where Pakistan Air Force pilots allegedly used it to down at leastone Indian Rafale fighter. This combat claim has boosted its reputation asa cost-effective alternative to Western counterparts, drawing attentionfrom Southeast Asian nations seeking affordable yet capable fighters amidshifting regional security dynamics.
China’s participation extended beyond the aerobatics, with AviationIndustry Corporation of China displaying a half-size model of the J-35A, aland-based variant of its fifth-generation stealth fighter originallycarrier-based. This complemented broader efforts to promote militaryexports to Southeast Asia, where Beijing seeks to expand influence throughdefense cooperation and arms sales. The J-10C’s performance aligned withthese objectives, attracting delegations from countries exploringdiversified procurement options.
The Singapore Airshow also featured other international displays, includingUS F-35A and F-16C, Russian Su-30MKM, allowing direct comparisons ofmaneuverability and presentation. Observers noted the J-10C’s colorfulsmoke trails and coordinated formations stood out, contributing to itsheadline-grabbing reception. Analysts view this as part of China’sassertive push in the regional aviation market, contrasting with perceivedUS isolation in some strategic contexts.
The Bayi team’s deployment involved seven J-10C jets arriving with a Y-20Arefuelling tanker, enabling a direct long-range flight. This logisticalfeat highlighted the PLA Air Force’s operational reach and readiness.Performances occurred multiple times during the event, with additional soloaerobatics by select aircraft, reinforcing the platform’s versatility inboth formation and individual displays.
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Experts suggest the demonstration could enhance the J-10CE’s exportprospects, particularly in markets valuing high performance at competitiveprices. While full international certification and after-sales supportremain challenges, the airshow exposure provides valuable visibility. Theevent coincides with China’s promotion of commercial platforms like theC919 airliner, signaling comprehensive aerospace ambitions.
Overall, the J-10C’s rocking performance at Singapore underscored China’sadvancing military aviation sector, blending technical sophistication withstrategic messaging. As regional tensions persist, such displays serve dualpurposes of technical showcasing and diplomatic outreach, fosteringmilitary-to-military goodwill while positioning Chinese hardware as aviable option for modern air forces.
Source:https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/china-flexes-its-muscle-singapore-airshow-us-isolated-2026-02-06
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