The J-10C ‘Vigorous Dragon’ fighter jet has garnered significant attention at the Zhuhai Air Show 2024, even as China showcases its new stealth aircraft, the J-35A. The J-10C, particularly its export variant, the J-10CE, continues to attract international interest, with several military leaders inspecting the aircraft.
On November 15, Azerbaijan’s Air Force Commander, Lieutenant General Namig Islamzade, visited the J-10CE at the air show. During his visit, he met with General Chang Dingqiu, China’s Air Force Commander, to discuss potential military cooperation. This visit raised speculation that Azerbaijan might be considering the J-10CE for purchase, especially after adding the JF-17 Block III, a joint Pakistan-China development, to its fleet. Similar interest in the J-10CE has been expressed by Iran’s Air Force Commander, Brigadier General Hamid Vahedi, and Egypt, which reportedly chose the J-10C over an F-16 upgrade.
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China is actively marketing the J-10C in the Middle East, positioning it as a cost-effective alternative to Western fighters such as the US F-16, the Eurofighter Typhoon, and the French Rafale. Priced at $40–50 million per unit, the J-10C offers competitive pricing and advanced capabilities, making it an attractive option for countries looking to strengthen their air forces without breaking the bank.
The J-10C is a versatile multi-role fighter designed for both air-to-air combat and precision strikes. Equipped with a WS-10B engine, AESA radar, PL-15 and PL-10 missiles, and advanced electronic warfare systems, it competes with fighters like the F-16. Its fly-by-wire controls and agile design enhance its performance, and it can operate in all weather conditions while using advanced targeting pods for laser and satellite-guided weapons.
The aircraft’s combination of affordability and cutting-edge technology has made it increasingly popular among international buyers. Analysts expect countries like Iran and Egypt to join Pakistan as potential future operators of the J-10C.
