Is China’s J-10C a Real Challenger to the F-16 and Eurofighter ?

Sino Turkish
3 July 2025

Tensions between India and Pakistan have long made South Asia one of the world’s most volatile regions. But the modernization of air power on both sides has added a new strategic layer. While India strengthened its air force with Rafale jets from France, Pakistan has turned to China’s J-10C multirole fighter — sparking comparisons across four key aircraft: J-10C, F-16, Rafale, and Eurofighter Typhoon.

This article analyzes the J-10C’s role in recent military scenarios, especially in the context of the India–Pakistan air standoff, and assesses whether it truly matches — or even surpasses — its Western rivals.

🔥 Why J-10C Matters ?

Following the 2019 Balakot air strikes, the need for upgraded air superiority platforms became clear. India’s acquisition of Dassault Rafale jets was seen as a game-changer. In response, Pakistan announced the induction of J-10C fighters in 2022, with full operational capability reported in 2023.

This move was strategic for several reasons:

Counterbalance India’s Rafale fleet
Modernize Pakistan’s aging F-16 lineup
Signal closer military alignment with China

🛡️ Technical and Combat Comparison (J-10C vs Rafale vs F-16 vs Eurofighter)

Feature	J-10C	Rafale	F-16 Block 70	Eurofighter Typhoon
Engine	WS-10B (China)	M88-2 (France)	F110-GE-132 (US)	EJ200 (Euro)
Radar	KLJ-7A AESA	RBE2 AESA	APG-83 AESA	Captor-E AESA
BVR Missile	PL-15 (~250–300 km)	Meteor (~150–200 km)	AIM-120D (~160 km)	Meteor
Maneuverability	Very High (FBW + canard)	High (delta + canard)	Medium–High	Very High
Cost	$40–45 million	$100+ million	$70–80 million	$100–120 million
Avionics & EW	Advanced, growing	Extremely mature	Mature	Very advanced
Export Restrictions	None (China)	Strict (France/NATO)	High (US/NATO)	Strict (NATO)

📌 Key Note: Pakistan operates both F-16s and J-10Cs, but the PL-15 missile and AESA radar combination on the J-10C gives it a longer strike reach compared to older F-16 variants.

📍 Tactical Advantage in the Subcontinent

In high-altitude warfare and BVR (Beyond Visual Range) combat scenarios — as seen near Kashmir and the LoC — the longer-range PL-15 missile gives the J-10C a significant tactical edge. The Indian Air Force’s Rafale, though superior in avionics and multirole versatility, carries Meteor missiles with shorter range than PL-15.

While the Rafale excels in sensor fusion and survivability, the J-10C offers a formidable air dominance capability at significantly lower cost and with fewer export restrictions — crucial for a country like Pakistan under constant arms supply scrutiny.

🔍 J-10C’s Broader Impact on the Region

Pakistan: Offers strategic parity against India’s Rafale without budget overruns
China: Strengthens military diplomacy in South Asia
India: Faces increasing need to counter not just Pakistan, but its Chinese supplier
Global South: Sees J-10C as a cost-effective alternative to Western systems

📊 Updated Comparison Chart

(Rafale ranks high in avionics and sensor fusion, while J-10C leads in cost and BVR missile range.)

✈️ Is J-10C a Game-Changer?

In isolation, the Rafale may be a more refined aircraft. But war is not won by elegance alone. The J-10C, armed with a powerful AESA radar and PL-15 missiles, offers Pakistan a robust and ready solution for air parity — especially when paired with strategic Chinese support.

When comparing cost, export flexibility, and real combat readiness, the J-10C is not just a rival — it may be the most practical fighter for mid-tier powers looking to punch above their weight.