SOURCE: AFI
Pakistan’s Ambassador to China reportedly visited the headquarters of China National Aero-Technology Import & Export Corporation (CATIC) in Yizhuang, Beijing, according to sources. These sources suggest that discussions during the visit centered on acquiring additional J-10C fighter jets and furthering bilateral cooperation in the defense sector.
This development comes after the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) acquired an initial batch of 25 J-10CE fighter jets, likely a response to the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) acquisition of 36 Rafale jets from France.
Reports now indicate that Pakistan is aiming to procure an additional 25 J-10C jets. If successful, this would bring their total fleet size to 50 within the next 2-3 years.
This potential deal reflects Pakistan’s efforts to modernize its air force and potentially counter India’s growing airpower in the region. The J-10C is a single-seat, single-engine fighter jet known for its maneuverability and advanced avionics.
The potential acquisition of additional J-10C jets is likely to be closely monitored by India, with both countries locked in a long-standing rivalry. This deal has the potential to further intensify the arms race in South Asia.