State of the World from NPR What Does Pakistan's Use of a New Chinese Fighter Jet Mean for the Future?
Jun 11, 2025
Recent military clashes between India and Pakistan have spotlighted a new player: the Chengdu J-10C fighter jet. This Chinese-made aircraft made its combat debut, raising questions about its impact on regional power dynamics. The podcast dives into the military tensions stemming from the strategic alliance between China and Pakistan, and how this relationship complicates the already delicate situation in South Asia. Experts discuss the implications for defense capabilities and evolving perceptions among neighboring countries.
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China's J-10 Fighter Debut
- Pakistan flew the Chinese-made Chengdu J-10C Vigorous Dragon fighter jet in combat for the first time during the May clashes with India.
- This debut highlighted the growing role of Chinese military technology in Pakistan's arsenal.
Pak J-10's Combat Impact
- Pakistan claimed their J-10 squadron shot down three French-made Rafale jets used by India.
- Later reports confirmed at least one Indian Rafale was downed, marking notable air combat success.
China-Pakistan Military Ties Deepen
- By the latest conflict, 72 to 80 percent of Pakistan's weaponry was supplied by China, intensifying the perception of a China-Pakistan alliance against India.
- This gave the fighting in May a far more serious dimension than previous India-Pakistan confrontations.