The J-10 c, a Chinese fighter plane, has undergone extensive development and upgrades throughout the years. It's a multi-role, modern fighter jet that can perform strikes missions as well as air-to–air combat. It is capable at destroying targets at high altitude and speed, as well as being able to carry weapons during an air-to–air engagement.
It is an extremely powerful aircraft, capable of competing with more expensive western light aircraft like the F-16 Block 70/72. It has the advantage of being able to offer a higher kill probability, better off bore shoot capability, G tolerance, and more range for its short-range missiles. Because it is the largest foreign user of F-16, the Pakistan Air Force may find the cost more affordable.
China began exporting J-10C fighters into Pakistan in early 2015. The PAF uses them as a demonstration platform. They are equipped with an active electronically scanned array radar (AESA), and can carry long-range air-to air PL-10/PL-15 missiles.
Additionally, the jet can be equipped with air-launched weapons including anti-ship missiles as well as precision guided bombs. The turbofan engine Shenyang WS-10B powers the jet. It is not a stealthy airplane, but it serves as an important military asset. The Chinese air force has found it to be a reliable weaponry platform.
As the Chinese economy has become more unstable and the Chinese government has faced tougher political challenges, China has looked to bolster its defense capabilities. There is a greater demand for Chinese-made aircraft. This has helped the Chengdu J-10 to gain a huge following. It is currently considered the pinnacle of Chinese fighter designs.
The j-10 is a powerful indigenous design in China that has been subject to a lot of criticism. There have been rumors that the aircraft is a clone of the IAI Lavi design, enhanced through access to Pakistani F-16A examples, but even cursory analysis indicates that this is not true.
The J-10 fighter is also one the most technologically advanced in the world. China's aviation industry will continue to improve its capabilities, so it can be expected that the aircraft will receive additional updates. The aircraft can adapt to changing requirements by adding radar that follows terrain, hardpoints that are stronger and sophisticated targeting and navigation system.
Its performance has improved considerably over the years. The latest j-10c is faster than the older model, and can go up to 495km/h. This makes it the fastest J-10 in operation and allows it to engage enemy aircraft at higher speeds.
The j-10 c's dorsal "big spine" configuration, which can house many sensors and other systems, is another major improvement. This would enable the j-10 c to carry more payload than other competitors and allow for more fuel.