Earlier this month, Pakistan's Air Force displayed a newly inducted J-10C fighter jet for the first time. The aircraft was spotted operating with a Shenyang WS-10 turbofan and social media reports confirm that it is in service.
The Chinese J-10C is a light-to-mediumweight fighter aircraft that is designed for air-to-air combat missions. It features an electronically scanned antenna (AESA), a fire control radar, as well as advanced fourth-generation airborne missiles. It can also carry avionics and drop tanks. The J-10C boasts a lower radar signature than previous J-10 models. The J-10C can carry six thousand kilograms of weapons and has eleven hardpoints. It can transport air-to air missiles, such as Kd-88 antiship missile and Yj91a air to air missile.
Chengdu Aerospace Corporation (CAC), has introduced the J-10C fighter plane, a new version of the J-10. It features an electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, a canard-delta wing, and an avionics pod. It also includes a supersonic diverterless intake. To reduce its weight, it has an upgraded airframe made from composite materials.
The J-10C has a long history of development. It was first flown in 1998 and became a front-line aircraft in 2003. This is the J-10's most advanced variant. The aircraft features a delta-wing design and a canard structure that increases aerodynamic ability but also adds drag. It can be operated in all weather conditions. It features 11 hardpoints to carry weapons, similar to the Indian Rafale fighter. It has a high-powered avionics suite that is comparable to the F-22 or F-35.
Imran Khan, Pakistan’s prime Minister, witnessed the induction ceremony. He also congratulated his nation on receiving the fighter jet. The cockpit of the aircraft was piloted by the prime Minister and the chief air staff. According to the chief of air staff, the J-10-C is an integrated weapon system. The aircraft is capable of carrying a wide range of air to-ground and air–to-air missiles, such as radar guided missiles. The aircraft can be refueled using aerial means.
Many Pakistani military strategists believe that the J-10C is Pakistan’s answer to Rafale. It is believed to be more stable and more agile than the Rafale. It comes with an enhanced electronic warfare suite. It is more resistant to jamming and has an advanced 3-D map and waveform agility for SAR imagery. It also has more energy and thrust, but is only 11 percent lighter.
Pakistan is interested in buying the Chinese J-10C fighter aircraft, mainly to counter the Indian Rafale fighter jet. The aircraft is expected to be a more affordable and superior option to Pakistan's Lockheed Martin F-16s. The aircraft can be equipped with an advanced radar and air-to-air missiles that can carry the same weaponry as the Rafale.