Saturday, March 29, 2025
Pakistan deploys China’s J-10C and PL-15 missiles in active warfare, highlighting Beijing’s military strength.
For the first time, Chinese fighter jets tested in a real combat scenario have revealed new insights into China’s military capabilities. Pakistan claimed it used Chinese J-10C jets armed with PL-15 missiles to down Indian Rafale fighters. This took place during a violent clash following India’s retaliatory missile strike last week.
India had launched missiles after a militant attack in Indian-administered Kashmir killed 26 people. Both countries then exchanged missiles and drone strikes over the weekend.
Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar informed parliament that Pakistani jets equipped with Chinese systems intercepted Indian aircraft. He also noted that China welcomed the outcome. Chinese social media erupted in praise for the J-10C’s performance.
The Chinese fighter jets tested in the clash — specifically the J-10C — had never been used in real warfare before. Their success offered a valuable look at Beijing’s technology under pressure. According to Siemon Wezeman from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), real-world combat provides the clearest picture of a weapon’s performance.
China supplies more than 80% of Pakistan’s military equipment. This includes jets, missiles, and naval assets. In this clash, the J-10C was pitted against the French-built Rafale — a highly respected modern fighter.
Andrew Small from the German Marshall Fund said the combat test benefits China significantly. “This is not just about the fighter jet,” he said. “It includes the radar, missiles, electronic warfare, and even satellite systems used in coordination.”
India has strong defense ties with both Russia and the United States. Russia supplies around 36% of India’s military imports. However, India did not deploy American systems in this recent clash, according to analysts.
The use of Chinese fighter jets tested in real warfare has alarmed Taiwan and its allies. Shu Hsiao-Huang from Taiwan’s National Defense and Security Research Institute believes this shows the PLA could rival or surpass U.S. air power in East Asia.
China’s military aims to be fully prepared for a Taiwan invasion by 2027. The outcome of this clash may boost confidence within Beijing. Former Global Times editor Hu Xijin said the event should increase Taiwan’s concerns.
China expects U.S. military involvement if a Taiwan conflict erupts. Yun Sun from the Stimson Center pointed out that Taiwan’s situation is different. Unlike this short aerial conflict, a Taiwan war would likely involve ground forces, marines, and the navy.
Although China did not officially celebrate the incident, its aircraft manufacturer Chengdu saw its stock price soar. China’s foreign ministry simply said it was “not familiar” with the J-10C claims. However, Vice-Foreign Minister Sun Weidong met with Pakistan’s ambassador and expressed support for a ceasefire.
The Chinese fighter jets tested in this incident may boost China’s reputation in global arms markets. China is the world’s fourth-largest arms exporter. Most of its sales go to Pakistan and smaller nations.
Analysts believe China may have supplied Pakistan with upgraded PL-15 missiles. These versions could have longer range than standard exports. Andrew Small noted that Pakistan often serves as a showcase for Beijing’s military tech.
SIPRI’s Wezeman warned against broad conclusions. However, he admitted the clash suggests China’s weaponry now matches Western capabilities.
