Azerbaijan Shows Interest in J-10Cs After Acquiring JF-17s from Pakistan

At the 2024 Zhuhai Air Show, the J-10C “Vigorous Dragon” fighter jet has emerged as a main attraction. Even after China unveiled its newest stealth fighter, the J-35A, it managed to pique people’s interest.

On November 15, Lieutenant General Namig Islamzade, commander of Azerbaijan’s air force, examined the J-10CE, the export variant of the J-10C. He met with China’s Air Force Commander, General Chang Dingqiu, during his tour to discuss bilateral military cooperation.

Photos of the Azerbaijani Commander looking at the jet led to rumors that Azerbaijan might want to buy the J-10CE.

Pakistan and China collaborated on developing the JF-17 Block III, and Azerbaijan has just expanded its fleet with this fighter. Following Pakistan’s acquisition of the J-10C, some predict Azerbaijan may think about doing the same.

A few days prior, Brigadier General Hamid Vahedi, also the commander of Iran’s air force, evaluated the J-10CE, further increasing its visibility. According to reports, Egypt has decided to upgrade its J-10Cs instead of its F-16s, highlighting the J-10C’s attractiveness.

As a more affordable substitute for the US F-16, the Eurofighter Typhoon, and the French Rafale, China is aggressively promoting the J-10C in the Middle East. Nations looking for sophisticated air power have a competitive option with prices ranging from $40 million to $50 million per unit.

When a Bangladeshi delegation visited China in 2018, they expressed interest in the J-10C as well. However, no moves have been made yet. Some analysts have speculated that Iran and Egypt might be among the countries that use the J-10C in the future, alongside Pakistan.

J-10C

The J-10C is an aircraft that can perform multiple missions, including air-to-air combat and precision strikes. Advanced electronic warfare systems, PL-15 and PL-10 missiles, an AESA radar, and a WS-10B engine are some of its features. Its performance is comparable to that of contemporary fighters like the F-16 because of its nimble design and fly-by-wire controls.

The aircraft is capable of operating in all weather conditions and facilitates in-flight refueling. Plus, it has high-tech targeting pods for laser and satellite-guided guns, which helps it do well in tough battles.

The J-10C is a revolutionary aircraft that will change the face of air battles around the world due to its cutting-edge sensors, small radar footprint, and powerful weaponry. Its increasing appeal among global purchasers is a result of its innovative features and cost-effectiveness.