Pakistan’s Strategic Air Superiority in Operation Sindoor
In the wake of recent hostilities, Pakistan's successful deployment of Chinese-made J-10C fighter jets during Operation Sindoor has stunned international observers. Pakistani Air Force officials confirmed the use of these advanced jets, accompanied by precision-guided PL-15 long-range air-to-air missiles, to effectively neutralize Indian aircraft incursions during a four-day conflict.
This operation not only affirmed Pakistan’s defensive resolve but also marked the J-10C’s first verified combat performance, sending a resounding message to India and its Western allies.
J-10C and PL-15 Missiles: A Game-Changer in South Asian Skies
The use of the PL-15, a radar-guided long-range missile with impressive kill probability, demonstrated the strength of Chinese military hardware in real combat. Pakistani defense analysts revealed that these weapons successfully struck high-value Indian targets, including Western-origin jets, reshaping perceptions about Chinese systems' real-world efficacy.
As one Pakistani military official put it, “This is no longer about military drills or war games—this is proof of precision, power, and partnership.”
China-Pakistan Defense Partnership Stuns the Region
The China-Pakistan defense collaboration has reached a new height. Chinese military analysts and former PLA officials stated that the success of Pakistan’s air operations validates Beijing’s defense exports, particularly as China seeks greater influence in Asia and beyond.
Although Beijing remained publicly reserved—likely due to improving China-India diplomatic ties—its state media eventually acknowledged the combat success of the J-10C in Pakistani hands, sparking nationalist pride and reinforcing confidence in Chinese weapon systems.
India’s Western Arms Exposed by Precision Strikes
While India has increasingly turned to France, the U.S., and Israel for its military modernization, the conflict exposed critical vulnerabilities in its air defense systems. Pakistan claims its jets easily evaded and even jammed India’s S-400 air defense and radar networks, and in just 23 minutes, achieved air superiority over contested zones.
This performance has been framed by Pakistani analysts as a clear rebuttal to Western claims of Indian military dominance in the region.
Implications for Taiwan and the Broader Indo-Pacific Theater
Chinese observers, emboldened by the Pakistani success, have extended the implications of this victory to Taiwan and the South China Sea. Analysts argue that the performance of Chinese fighter jets and missile systems in Pakistan’s hands should be taken as a serious warning to Taiwan and its backers.
Hu Xijin, former editor of the nationalist Global Times, emphasized: “If Pakistan can wield these systems so effectively, imagine their capability when used by the PLA.”
Beijing’s Subtle Support and Islamabad’s Rising Military Credibility
While China refrained from loud celebration, its support for Pakistan remains evident in the form of sophisticated military equipment, joint drills, and advanced radar technologies. In Islamabad, officials have pointed to the conflict as a turning point in regional military balance, calling it a “proof-of-concept” for China’s defense strategy and Pakistan’s growing military independence.
This quiet yet firm support aligns with both nations’ long-standing alliance under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and military technology sharing initiatives.
Pakistan’s Message to New Delhi: A Deterrent Reinforced
As tensions subside, Pakistani defense leaders have reiterated their stance: “We seek peace, but we will not hesitate to defend our sovereignty with full force.” This conflict, they argue, was a wake-up call for India, not only about Pakistan’s capabilities but about the shifting nature of global defense dynamics.
India may still downplay its losses, but the strategic shift is undeniable: Pakistan, with China by its side, has redefined deterrence in the subcontinent.