The strategic The Eurofighter Typhoons were challenged into a dogfight by a Pakistani J-10 delta wing jet. In a significant aerial exercise event, the occasion is being risen to by Pakistan’s newly incorporated J-10C fighters, as they are being tested against the Qatar Emiri Air Force’s Eurofighter Typhoons for the first time ever.
It was declared by the Pakistan Air Force [PAF] on the 10th of January, 2024, that the Zilzal-II, a joint air exercise hosted by Qatar, featured the forces’ Eurofighter Typhoons and Pakistan’s Chengdu J-10Cs in a show of combined aerial strength. A mirror image of an authentic aerial warfare scenario is being presented by the exercise, seeking to monitor the operational readiness of both air forces.
According to the PAF, this exercise is distinguished as one of the most intricate collaborative training efforts among air forces. Aiming to boost collaboration between the two allied nations, the exercise also offers a common platform for skill exchange and shared learning experiences.
As stated in an official statement by the PAF, “The prowess of the highly advanced J-10C fighter aircraft of the PAF is being showcased against the Eurofighter jets of the Qatar Emiri Air Force in a premiere aerial exercise face-off.”
Testing Practice
In March 2022, the introduction of the first fleet of J-10Cs by the PAF, a product of Chinese development, into their air force, was witnessed. The exact number of J-10 aircraft deployed in the current exercise remains undisclosed.
All of these activities are taking place at the Doha airbase, conveniently located near the capital’s primary airport. This stands as a stark contrast to the Al-Udeid airbase, where the presence of the US is prominently observed.
The speedy incorporation and operation of the J-10C fighter jets into their fighter fleet were lauded by the PAF, stating, “Their successful induction and their participation in another international exercise within a remarkably brief period is an outstanding accomplishment.”
In focusing on the importance of the J-10Cs’ involvement, significant progress towards becoming a “technologically sophisticated and imposing Air Force” is asserted by the PAF.
The seamless integration and rapid operational preparation of these sophisticated fighter jets are further noted by the PAF to reinforce the strong commitment of the PAF to maintain a potent force, competent in addressing emerging challenges and efficiently securing Pakistan’s airspace.
The exercise is tipped to provide invaluable points on the comparative functionality of the Chinese platform and deliver a clear understanding of its potential.
Equipped with the latest active electronically scanned array radars and armed with beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles, these aircraft are fitted. Specifically, while the Eurofighter is equipped with the MBDA Meteor, the export version of the PL-15 is operated by the J-10C.
The strategic Pakistani J-10 delta wing jet
The strategic move aimed at advancing cooperative planning measures, Zilzal-II, underscores the strong defense alliance between these closely-knit nations. Zilzal’s inaugural roll-out in 2020 emphasized strengthening the already robust defense ties between these two countries. Pakistan’s JF-17 Thunder fighters flying alongside Qatar’s Mirage 2000s were witnessed in the memorable Zilzal-I exercise.
Built on this solid foundation, Zilzal II serves as a platform that fosters a deeper understanding, collaboration, and camaraderie between the Pakistan Air Force and the Qatar Emiri Air Force, as believed by Pakistan. This collaborative venture is expected to contribute positively to regional stability and security.
Apart from the formidable Eurofighter Typhoons, Qatar’s arsenal includes powerful aircraft such as the Boeing F-15QA Advanced Eagle and the Dassault Rafale. However, ambiguity exists regarding whether the PAF J-10s will interact with other Qatari aircraft in the ongoing exercise. In a strategic move, the procurement of the J-10 by Pakistan was decided to counterbalance India’s Rafale acquisition. The J-10 was deemed a formidable adversary to the Indian Air Force’s Rafale fighter jet by experts from both China and Pakistan.
A 4.5 generation medium-sized fighter jet, the J-10C boasts a level of potency and capabilities that surpass those of the JF-17, a lightweight fighter jet developed jointly by China and Pakistan and currently in use by the Pakistan Air Force.
However, operational issues have reportedly been encountered by Pakistan’s Air Force’s JF-17, particularly with maintenance, as disruptions in the availability of spare parts in the global market have been caused by US sanctions.
This reliance on China for crucial components has resulted in supply chain interruptions and delays, leaving several aircraft within the JF-17 fleet grounded.
