In the ever-evolving landscape of military aviation, nations continually strive to gain a strategic edge over their adversaries. China and Pakistan, longstanding allies, have embarked on an ambitious journey to bolster their aerial capabilities, posing a formidable challenge to India’s dominance in the skies. At the forefront of this endeavour is the acquisition of the J-10′ Vigorous Dragon’ fighter jet, a multirole combat aircraft that has captured the attention of military analysts worldwide.
Preemptive Decisions: Pakistan’s Proactive Approach
Pakistan has always been proactive in acquiring advanced military aircraft. In the 1950s, the PAF bought the superior F-86F Sabre fighters, whereas India bought Dassault Ouragans. In 1961, India bought Soviet MiG-21s after Pakistan bought F-104 Starfighters. Pakistan bought F-16 Fighting Falcons from the U.S. in the 1980s, whereas India bought Mirage in the 2000s. Before India’s Beriev A-50 Phalcon and DRDO ‘Netra’ AEW&C systems, the PAF acquired the Saab 2000 Erieye and Chinese ZDK-03.
The Crown Jewel: JF-17 Thunder and Its Challenges
Pakistan and China developed the JF-17 Thunder fighter. This 2007-founded PAF combat fleet of 150 aircraft is made for Pakistan and expects to grow. There are concerns with JF-17. Concerns surround grounded planes due to guidance vanes and exhaust nozzle cracks. Myanmar, the first country outside Pakistan to buy the JF-17, grounded its fleet due to difficulties, while Nigeria is wary of its small purchase. Spare parts, supply chain, and maintenance have plagued JF-17. KLJ-7 radar-supported avionics and Russian RD-93 engines have hampered the program.
Embracing the ‘Vigorous Dragon’: J-10CE Acquisition
Pakistan is buying the J-10CE, an export variant of the J-10C’ Vigorous Dragon’ multirole fighter, from China in reaction to India’s purchase of the French Rafale fighter jets. Pakistan bought 36 aircraft, delivered 20, and wants to order 14 more, bringing the total to 50. An indigenous AESA fire-control radar, imaging infrared seeker (IIR), and long-range PL-15 air-to-air missiles are on the J-10CE. Leonardo’s Grifo-E AESA-MMR radar will improve Pakistan’s J-10CEs’ combat capability.
Rafale vs. J-10CE: A Comparative Analysis
Rafale outperforms the 4.5-generation multirole fighter jet J-10CE in technology, weaponry, engines, and combat experience. Twin-engine configuration, Meteor missile system, and greater electronic warfare make the Rafale better than the J-10CE. The two aircraft differ, according to veteran IAF fighter test pilot and Center for Air Power Studies director-general Air Marshal Anil Chopra. Adds, “The Rafale has a clear edge over the J-10 regarding technology, weapons, aero-engines, and combat experience.” Mali, Afghanistan, Libya, Iraq, and Syria have tested Rafale, while Pakistan uses J-10 in joint drills.
Bridging the Gap: LCA Tejas Mk1A vs. J-10C
The Rafale outperforms the J-10CE, whereas the J-10C outperforms India’s Tejas Mk1A. Because of global supply chain delays, the IAF has ordered 83+97 fighter jets, with the first delivery due in mid-2024. Technical specifications show that the J-10C is more extensive, heavier, and faster than the Tejas LCA. Tejas LCA has higher range and agility. The LCA Tejas Mk1A is still being constructed, whereas the J-10C has been deployed in China and Pakistan.
The Critical Need for Medium Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA)
The IAF plans to buy 114 Medium-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) from overseas manufacturers for US$20 billion, but the national focus on ‘Make in India’ has stalled the process. This delay doubts IAF deterrence and threat perception. According to former IAF Vice Chief Air Marshal Anil Khosla, a balanced force requires new multirole aircraft until the domestic Tejas Mk II and Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) are available. He suggests buying MRFA aircraft in phases for the latest technology and features.
Funding Challenges and Aspirations: LCA Mk2 and AMCA
Despite Indian clearance for the development, flight testing, and certification of the medium-weight 4.5-generation fighter aircraft LCA Mk2, financing is subject to U.S. consent for a 100% engine technology transfer to India. The LCA Mk2 improves range, endurance, and cargo. The engine is the General Electric F414-INS6. It should have a 1.8 Mach top speed and a 50,000 feet service ceiling, with SCALP, Crystal Maze, and Spice-2000 heavy weapons. IAF may order 200+ LCA Mk2 fighters. India’s fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) must still be funded and undeveloped.
Implications for India’s Aerial Capabilities
Pakistan’s J-10CE purchase and China’s J-10 fighter deployment near India necessitate India’s reinforcement of its fighter squadrons. Phasing out the MiG-21 Bison without proper replacements might undermine India’s 31 aviation squadrons. India must accelerate BrahMos 2 and Astra 3 missile development to counter this danger and procure more Rafale fighter jets or other MMRCA-class aircraft. The timing is crucial because ignoring these issues could endanger India’s security and regional influence.
China’s Growing Influence and Pakistan’s Dependence
China is Pakistan’s most prominent defence supplier, increasing military aviation links. China has contributed specialist steels, guidance systems, and technological expertise to Pakistan’s long-range ballistic missile projects since creating the Heavy Industries at Taxila in 1971 and the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex at Kamra in 1973. Pakistan deploys Chinese-made HQ-9/P air defence systems, K-8 Karakorum trainers, and CH-4 reconnaissance-cum-strike drones. This strong collaboration threatens Indian regional security.
Pakistan and China’s J-10 Vigorous Dragon fighter aircraft procurement and deployment near India’s border challenge Indian aerial superiority. Because India’s fighter squadrons are shrinking and indigenous aircraft like the LCA Tejas Mk1A and AMCA are delayed, the J-10CE is more combat-parallel than the Rafale. As Pakistan struggles economically and politically, Chinese defence influence grows, generating a regional aerial superiority contest. India must build indigenous programs and acquire and form strategic relationships to dominate the region. Air superiority in altering geopolitics demands fighting power, technology, and strategy. Governments will prioritize airspace defence and global power.
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