China has officially confirmed that its J-10CE fighter jet achieved a 9-0 record against Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft during simulated combat exercises in 2024.
State broadcaster CCTV revealed the information in a recent report about the aircraft’s operational performance. The broadcaster did not identify the location or participants involved in the drills.
Reports from Pakistani media linked the exercises to the ‘Zilzal-II’ joint air drills held in Qatar in January 2024. During the exercise, Pakistan Air Force pilots reportedly flew the Chinese-made J-10CE aircraft against Qatar’s Eurofighter Typhoons. The reports stated that the Chinese jets won all nine simulated combat encounters.
Five of the engagements reportedly took place in close-range dogfights between the aircraft. The remaining four battles happened beyond visual range, where pilots rely heavily on radar systems and long-range missiles. These types of exercises are designed to test aircraft performance, pilot skill, and combat systems under realistic conditions.
J-10CE Fighter Gains Attention
The J-10 fighter program was first developed by China’s Chengdu Aircraft Corporation during the 1980s. The aircraft was designed as a single-engine, multi-role fighter for air combat and strike missions. China later upgraded the platform several times to improve radar, weapons, and engine performance.
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In 2017, China introduced the more advanced J-10C version into active military service. The aircraft belongs to the 4.5-generation fighter category. It includes advanced radar systems, electronic warfare tools, and modern missile technology. Its export model, the J-10CE, entered the international market in 2020.
The J-10CE uses an active electronically scanned array(AESA) radar. This radar can track multiple targets at long distances and improve combat awareness for pilots. The fighter also carries modern Chinese missiles, including the PL-10 short-range missile and the PL-15 long-range air-to-air missile.
The Eurofighter Typhoon was jointly developed by Britain, Germany, Italy, and Spain during the 1980s. It entered operational service in Europe during the 2000s and became one of the region’s main combat aircraft. Qatar purchased the advanced Tranche 3A version of the Typhoon, which includes upgraded radar and weapons systems.
Pakistan’s Role and Regional Impact
Pakistan remains the only known foreign operator of the J-10CE fighter jet. The country has ordered 36 aircraft from China, with reports indicating that around 20 have already entered active service. Pakistan has also acquired nearly 250 PL-15 missiles to strengthen its air combat capabilities.
The CCTV disclosure came about one year after the J-10CE reportedly saw combat action for the first time. In May last year, Pakistan claimed that its J-10CE fighters shot down Indian aircraft during an aerial clash. Pakistani officials stated that at least one French-made Rafale fighter jet was destroyed during the engagement.
If confirmed independently, the incident would mark the first combat loss of the Rafale fighter aircraft. It would also represent the first known air-to-air combat success involving a Chinese-made fighter jet. The development increased international attention on China’s growing military aviation industry.
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Military analysts say the latest exercise results could help China promote the J-10CE to foreign buyers. Chinese military commentator Song Zhongping said the combat performance would strengthen confidence in the aircraft’s export potential. He added that some countries may still face political pressure when considering purchasing Chinese fighters.
China Expands Fighter Jet Exports
China has been actively promoting its fighter aircraft in Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. Countries such as Indonesia, Bangladesh, and Egypt have shown interest in Chinese military aircraft in recent years. Lower costs and modern technology have made Chinese jets more attractive to some developing nations.
Recent reports from Indian media claimed that Pakistan delivered a JF-17 Block III fighter jet simulator to Bangladesh. The JF-17 is another 4.5-generation fighter jointly developed by China and Pakistan. Analysts believe the move could signal Bangladesh’s interest in future fighter purchases from the China-Pakistan defense partnership.
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The growing attention around the J-10CE comes at a time when global defense competition is increasing rapidly. Countries are looking for affordable fighter aircraft with advanced radar, missile, and electronic warfare capabilities. China’s latest disclosure is expected to strengthen debate about the future balance of power in the international fighter jet market.
