The J-10c Chinese fighter jet has been subject to extensive development over the years. It is a modern multi-role fighter aircraft that can be used for both air-to, and ground combat. It is capable of destroying targets at high speed and altitude, with the ability to carry weapons in an air-to-air engagement.
It is a powerful aircraft and can compete with the more expensive and advanced western light-aircraft like the F-16 Block 70/72 or Rafale. It can offer a higher kill chance, better off-bore shoot capability, G tolerance, and greater range for its short range missiles. The F-16 is also more affordable, which could be an advantage to the Pakistan Air Force, as they are the largest foreign users.
China began exporting J-10C fighters into Pakistan in early 2015. The PAF is using them as a demonstration platform. They have an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar and can carry air-to-air PL-10/PL-15 air-to-air missiles that can reach long-range targets.
It can also carry air-launched weapons like anti-ship missiles or precision guided bombs. The jet is powered by the Shenyang WS-10B turbofan engine. It is not a stealthy aircraft, but it is an important military asset that has proven to be a very reliable weaponry platform for the Chinese air force.
China has been looking to improve its defense capabilities, as China's economy has become more unstable and the Chinese state has had to face greater political challenges. There is a greater demand for Chinese-made aircraft. This has helped the Chengdu J-10 to gain a huge following. It is currently considered the pinnacle of Chinese fighter designs.
The j-10, despite being criticized a lot, is one of China's most striking and powerful indigenous designs. Rumours have circulated that the aircraft is a cloned of the IAI Lavi design and enhanced by access to Pakistani F-16A examples. However, even a cursory analysis shows that this is false.
The J-10 is also a highly technologically advanced fighter aircraft. As China expands its aviation industry, it will likely receive more updates. The aircraft can adapt to changing requirements by adding radar that follows terrain, hardpoints that are stronger and sophisticated targeting and navigation system.
Its performance has significantly improved over the years. The latest j-10 c has a much greater RCS than the older model and it can achieve speeds of up to 495 km/h. This makes it the fastest J-10 in service and allows it to engage enemy aircraft at higher speeds than before.
Another major change on the j-10 c is the dorsal 'big spine' configuration which could house a variety of sensors and systems. This would give the j-10 a higher payload capacity and more room for fuel than many of its competitors.