Beijing says it is unaware of Pakistan using China-made jets (Representative image)
Why Is China Silent on Pakistan’s Explosive J-10C Fighter Jet Claims Against India?
Amid rising India-Pakistan tensions, China’s cryptic response to Pakistan’s claims of deploying Chinese-made J-10C fighter jets to challenge India’s air defenses has sparked global intrigue. Following India’s Operation Sindoor, this development raises questions about military alliances and regional power dynamics. Here’s a deep dive into this unfolding saga.
Pakistan’s Audacious Claim: J-10C Jets Take Flight
Pakistan’s leadership, led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, recently declared that the Pakistan Air Force employed J-10C fighter jets, crafted by China’s Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group, during a border clash on May 7–8, 2025. Pakistani officials assert these jets outmaneuvered Indian aircraft, including claims of downing Rafale jets. With advanced AESA radar and upgraded engines, the J-10C underscores Pakistan’s growing air combat prowess.
China’s Evasive Stance: “Not Familiar”
When questioned about Pakistan’s use of J-10C fighter jets, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian responded with a puzzling “I am not familiar with the matter.” This ambiguous statement, issued during a Beijing press conference, has fueled speculation. Experts believe China’s hesitation to endorse Pakistan’s claims may reflect diplomatic restraint or an effort to avoid provoking India, a key player in South Asian geopolitics.
India’s Ironclad Defense: S-400 Shines
Countering Pakistan’s narrative, India’s S-400 ‘Sudarshan Chakra’ system demonstrated its strength during the same period. Deployed to neutralize Pakistani drones and missiles, the Russian-made system protected critical Indian military bases in cities like Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, and Bhuj. The S-400’s success reinforces India’s robust air defense strategy amid escalating regional threats.
J-10C: Pakistan’s New Aerial Powerhouse?
The J-10C fighter jet, a multirole aircraft with stealth capabilities and long-range missiles, is central to the Pakistan Air Force’s modernization push. As the sole foreign operator of this jet, Pakistan showcased its potential during Operation Sindoor, India’s strikes against terror camps. While Pakistan touts the jet’s success, the lack of Chinese confirmation or independent evidence casts doubt on its battlefield impact.
Geopolitical Chess: China’s Strategic Silence
China’s guarded response to the J-10C controversy highlights its delicate role in South Asian geopolitics. As Pakistan’s primary arms supplier, China benefits from promoting its military technology. However, escalating tensions with India, a major economic partner, could disrupt Beijing’s regional influence. By sidestepping Pakistan’s claims, China may be maintaining a neutral posture to balance its alliances.
Market Surge: Defense Stocks Soar
Pakistan’s claims have reverberated in financial markets, with shares of AVIC Chengdu Aircraft Co Ltd, the J-10C’s manufacturer, skyrocketing over 36% in two days on the Shenzhen exchange. This surge, fueled by unverified reports of the jet’s combat success, highlights the rising global appetite for Chinese defense technology amid regional conflicts.
The Road Ahead: Escalating Tensions
The India-Pakistan conflict, ignited by the Pahalgam terror attack and amplified by Operation Sindoor, continues to intensify. India’s reliance on the S-400 system and Pakistan’s use of J-10C jets signal a deepening arms race in South Asia. As both nations fortify their military arsenals, the international community calls for de-escalation to avert a larger crisis.
Conclusion: A Region at a Crossroads
Pakistan’s bold claims about Chinese-made J-10C fighter jets and China’s elusive response have thrust India-Pakistan tensions into the global spotlight. As military technology, diplomacy, and market trends collide, the world awaits clarity from Beijing and verified accounts of the jets’ performance. For now, South Asia remains on edge, with peace hanging in the balance.