Iran Seeks Chinese J-10C Jets After Russian Su-35 Deal Falters Amid Conflict Losses

In a significant shift in Middle Eastern geopolitics, Iran is accelerating negotiations with China to acquire Chengdu J – 10C multirole fighter aircraft. This move follows the collapse of a long – anticipated deal with Russia for Su – 35 aircraft and comes after a recent 12 – day conflict with Israel and the United States, which exposed critical vulnerabilities in Iran’s air force and air defense systems. Tehran’s pivot to Beijing, as reported by Iran’s Khorasan newspaper and cited by Kommersant, signals an attempt to modernize its fleet amid escalating regional tensions.

This development not only reshapes Iran’s military strategy but also underscores China’s growing role as a defense supplier in the Persian Gulf, prompting questions about the region’s shifting power dynamics. The decision to opt for the J – 10C follows a period during which Russia’s much – vaunted Su – 35 jets, advanced fourth – generation aircraft, were conspicuously absent from the skies above Iran despite intense Israeli air operations.

Despite media reports about a deal with Russia for the advanced fourth – generation fighter aircraft, they were nowhere to be found in Iran during Israel’s air campaign. Several reports over the previous two years indicated that Iran would soon put the Russian jets into service. Reuters reported on the conclusion of a deal with Russia in 2023, although that agreement between Tehran and Moscow did not seem to include immediate payment for the advanced fighter aircraft.

Iran’s Deputy Defense Minister Mehdi Farahi was quoted by Reuters as saying, “Plans have been finalized for Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jets, Mil Mi-28 attack helicopters, and Yak-130 jet trainers to join the combat units of Iran’s Army.” However, the anticipated delivery schedule reportedly faced delays, partly attributed to Russia’s ongoing conflict in Ukraine. By March 2025, reports emerged indicating that Su-35s potentially intended for Iran had been redirected elsewhere, specifically to Algeria, leaving Tehran in search of alternatives.

The recent 12-day war, which began on June 13, 2025, exposed the deficiencies in Iran’s aerial capabilities. Israel’s Operation Rising Lion, involving F-35 stealth fighters and F-15 strike aircraft, overwhelmed Iran’s air defenses and targeted key nuclear facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. According to Iranian sources, losses were estimated at up to 30% of the IRIAF’s operational fleet, though exact figures remain unverified.

Within 48 hours of Israel’s operation, Israel announced that it had gained aerial superiority over Iran after targeting the country’s air defenses. Brigadier General Effie Defrin, an Israeli military spokesperson, stated that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) had degraded Iranian air defenses and missile systems to a point where Israeli planes could operate over Tehran without facing major threats. The IDF reported achieving near-air superiority, controlling the skies from western Iran to Tehran.

The Israeli military reported the destruction of more than 120 surface-to-surface missile launchers. Yechiel Leiter, Israel’s ambassador to the United States, stated on social media, “We have opened up the skies of Iran, achieving near-air superiority.” Defrin added that the IDF had destroyed one-third of the Iranian regime’s missile launchers, with more than 20 surface-to-surface missiles destroyed before launch on a single night.

Military equipment: Sukhoi Su-35
Name: Su-27M / Su-35
Caption: Russian Aerospace Forces
Type: Multirole combat aircraft,air superiority fighter
NationalOrigin: Soviet Union
Manufacturer: United Aircraft Corporation
DesignGroup: Sukhoi Design Bureau
Builder: Sukhoi
FirstFlight: Start date and age
Introduction: February 2014
Status: In service
PrimaryUser: Russian Aerospace Forces
MoreUsers: People’s Liberation Army Air Force,Algerian Air Force
Produced: Su-27M: 1987–1995,Su-35S: 2007–present
NumberBuilt: Su-27M: 12
UnitCost: flyaway cost
DevelopedFrom: Sukhoi Su-27
Variants: Sukhoi Su-37
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Summary: The Sukhoi Su-35 (Russian: Сухой Су-35; NATO reporting name: Flanker-E/M, occasionally nicknamed “Super Flanker”) is the designation for two improved derivatives of the Su-27 air-defence fighter. They are single-seat, twin-engine, supermaneuverable, 4.5 generation air superiority fighters, designed by the Sukhoi Design Bureau and built by Sukhoi. The type was originally developed by the Soviet Union from the Su-27 and was known as the Su-27M. It incorporated canards and a multi-function radar giving it multi-role capabilities. The first prototype made its maiden flight in June 1988. Following the dissolution of the Soviet Union Sukhoi re-designated it as the Su-35 to attract export orders. Fourteen aircraft were produced and used for tests and demonstrations; one example had thrust-vectoring engines and was in turn redesignated the Su-37. A sole Su-35UB two-seat trainer was also built in the late 1990s that resembled the Su-30MK family. In 2003, Sukhoi embarked on a second “deep” modernization of the Su-27 to serve as an interim export aircraft awaiting the development of the Sukhoi PAK FA (Su-57) program. Also known as the Su-35, this version incorporates technology from the PAK FA program and has a redesigned cockpit and weapons-control system and features thrust-vectoring engines in place of the canards. The type made its first flight in February 2008. Although it was designed for export, the Russian Air Force became the launch customer in 2009, with the production version designated Su-35S. China’s People’s Liberation Army Air Force has also placed orders.

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Israel targeting Iran air defenses — File:Air Defense Activity Against Hostile Targets in the Skies of Tehran 14 Tasnim.jpg – Wikimedia Commons, Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY 4.0

A New York Times report indicated that Israel continued to target Iran’s air defenses to create a pathway for Israeli fighter jets to reach Tehran freely. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told Fox News that Israel was working to “peel off the layers of protection” of Iranian defenses. This suggested that Israel could fly through much of Iranian airspace as easily as it could over Lebanon and Syria, enabling repeated strikes if needed, as noted by Zohar Palti, a former senior official in Mossad.

Israel achieved this objective through its air arsenal, which includes F – 35 stealth jets, fourth – generation aircraft such as the F – 16 and F – 15, and SPICE (Smart, Precise Impact, Cost – Effective) bombs. Initial airstrikes were reportedly carried out by Israel’s fifth – generation stealth F – 35 aircraft, which had been enhanced with Israeli modifications to extend range without compromising stealth. Once Iranian air defenses were suppressed, older warplanes such as F – 15s and F – 16s were deployed, dropping cheaper JDAM and Spice guided bombs.

Defense analysts widely note that Israel possesses a significantly superior air force compared to Iran. Frederik Mertens, a strategic analyst with the Dutch think tank TNO, told Newsweek that Israel has one of the most experienced and capable air forces globally, with thoroughly trained personnel, modern aircraft, ample support, and advanced ammunition stocks, all of which are supported by American logistics. According to the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), Israel has a total of 340 operational aircraft, including F – 35s, F – 15s, and F – 16s.

In contrast, Iran’s aerial prowess is described as being far inferior. William Freer, a research fellow for national security at the UK – based Council on Geostrategy think tank, told Newsweek, “The Iranian air force was already in a deplorable state before the current fighting began.” He added that “For all practical purposes, Iran did not really have an air force.”

Military equipment: Islamic Republic of Iran Air Defense Force
UnitName: Islamic Republic of Iran Air Defense Force
NativeName: نیروی پدافند هوایی ارتش جمهوری اسلامی ایران
Caption: The seal of the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Defense Force
Motto: [object Object]
StartDate: 1933–1954 1954–2008 2008–present
Type: Air defence
CommandStructure: flagicon image,Islamic Republic of Iran Army
Country: Iran
Battles: Anglo-Soviet invasion of Iran,Iran–Iraq War,Iran–U.S. RQ-170 incident,2019 Iranian shoot-down of American drone,Iran–Israel proxy conflict,Iran–Israel war
Garrison: Tehran
GarrisonLabel: Headquarters
Anniversaries: September 1st
March: April 18th
Size: 15,000
Commander1: Alireza Sabahifard
Commander1Label: Commander
IdentificationSymbol: File:IRI Air Defence Flag.svg
IdentificationSymbolLabel: Official flag
Categories: Air defence forces, All articles with unsourced statements, Anti-Israeli sentiment in Iran, Articles containing Arabic-language text, Articles containing Persian-language text, Articles with short description, Articles with unsourced statements from July 2025, Articles with unsourced statements from June 2025, CS1 Persian-language sources (fa), CS1 errors: bare URL, CS1 errors: missing title, Islamic Republic of Iran Army, Military units and formations established in 2008, Short description is different from Wikidata, Short description matches Wikidata
Summary: The Islamic Republic of Iran Air Defense Force (Persian: نیروی پدافند هوایی ارتش جمهوری اسلامی ایران, romanized: Niruye Pədâfənde Həvâyiye Ərteše Jomhuriye Eslâmiye Irân) is the anti-aircraft warfare branch of Iran’s regular military, the Islamic Republic of Iran Army (Artesh). It split from the air force (IRIAF) in 2008 and controls the country’s military radar network. The Islamic Republic of Iran Air Defense Force plays a crucial role in the nation’s military framework, tasked with safeguarding Iran’s airspace and essential infrastructure from aerial threats. the IRIADF utilizes various air defense systems and technologies, such as surface-to-air missiles, anti-aircraft artillery, and radar systems. The main objective of the Iranian Air Defense Force is to detect, identify, and neutralize hostile aircraft, drones, and missiles operating within the airspace of Iran.

Get more information about: Islamic Republic of Iran Air Defense Force

According to the Military Balance 2025, published by the International Institute for Strategic Studies, Iran’s air force boasted approximately 150 fighter jets prior to the recent conflict, but the majority of them are relics from a bygone era. The backbone of the fleet consists of American-made aircraft that were acquired before the 1979 Islamic Revolution, including 64 F – 4 Phantom II jets, 35 F – 5E/F Tiger II fighters, and 41 F – 14A Tomcats. Additionally, Iran operates 18 MiG – 29A/UB jets that were acquired from the Soviet Union.

Most of these aircraft are plagued by maintenance issues, with many of them being deemed non – operational due to a lack of spare parts and technical expertise, which is a consequence of decades of U.S.-led sanctions. The recent conflict demonstrated that Iran’s air force, which was once a formidable regional player, is no match for modern adversaries equipped with cutting – edge technology. Iran’s reliance on domestically produced surface – to – air missile systems, such as the Bavar – 373, proved to be inadequate against Israel’s advanced electronic warfare and precision – guided munitions.

Tehran’s pivot to Beijing follows this stark assessment. The Chengdu J – 10C, often referred to as the “Vigorous Dragon,” is a single – engine, multi – role fighter jet developed by China’s Chengdu Aerospace Corporation. Positioned as a 4.5 – generation aircraft, it is considered comparable to the American F – 16V and Sweden’s Gripen E in terms of capability and cost. The J – 10C features a delta – wing design with canard forewings, providing high maneuverability for both air – to – air and air – to – ground missions.

Military equipment: McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II
Name: F-4 Phantom II
LongCaption: U.S. Air Force
AircraftType: Interceptor aircraft,fighter-bomber
NationalOrigin: United States
Manufacturer: McDonnell Aircraft Corporation,McDonnell Douglas
FirstFlight: Start date and age
Introduction: Start date and age
Retired: 1996 (U.S. combat use),2004 (Israel),2013 (Germany),2016 (U.S. target drone),2021 (Japan),2024 (South Korea)
Produced: 1958–1981
NumberBuilt: 5,195
Status: In limited service
PrimaryUser: United States Air Force
MoreUsers: United States Navy,United States Marine Corps,Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force
Variants: McDonnell Douglas Phantom in UK service
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Summary: The McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II is an American tandem two-seat, twin-engine, all-weather, long-range supersonic jet interceptor and fighter-bomber that was developed by McDonnell Aircraft for the United States Navy. It entered service with the Navy in 1961, then was adopted by the United States Marine Corps, and the United States Air Force, and within a few years became a major part of their air arms. A total of 5,195 Phantoms were built from 1958 to 1981, making it the most-produced American supersonic military aircraft in history and a signature combat aircraft of the Cold War. The Phantom is a large fighter with a top speed of over Mach 2.2. It can carry more than 18,000 pounds (8,400 kg) of weapons on nine external hardpoints, including air-to-air missiles, air-to-ground missiles, and various bombs. Like other interceptors of its time, the F-4 was initially designed without an internal cannon, but some later models incorporated an internal M61 Vulcan rotary cannon. Beginning in 1959, it set 15 world records for in-flight performance, including an absolute speed record and an absolute altitude record. The F-4 was used extensively during the Vietnam War, first as the principal air superiority fighter for the U.S. Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps, and later as a ground-attack and aerial reconnaissance aircraft. During the Vietnam War, all five American servicemen who became aces – one U.S. Air Force pilot and two weapon systems officers (WSOs), one U.S. Navy pilot and one radar intercept officer (RIO) – did so in F-4s. The Phantom remained a major part of U.S. military air power into the 1980s, when it was gradually replaced by more modern aircraft such as the F-15 Eagle and F-16 Fighting Falcon in the U.S. Air Force, the F-14 Tomcat in the U.S. Navy, and the F/A-18 Hornet in the U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps. The Phantom was used for reconnaissance and Wild Weasel (Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses) missions in the 1991 Gulf War, and finally left combat service in 1996. It was the only aircraft used by both U.S. flight demonstration teams: the United States Air Force Thunderbirds (F-4E) and the United States Navy Blue Angels (F-4J). The F-4 was also operated by the armed forces of 11 other nations. Israeli Phantoms saw extensive combat in several Arab–Israeli conflicts, while Iran used its large fleet of Phantoms, acquired before the fall of the Shah, in the Iran–Iraq War. The F-4 remains in active service with the Hellenic Air force, Turkish Air Force, and Iranian Air Force. Turkey’s most recently upgraded F-4E Terminator variant is to remain in service until at least 2030.

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Its standout feature is the KLJ – 7A Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, which offers superior target detection and tracking capabilities in comparison to older mechanically – scanned radars installed on many of Iran’s current aircraft. The jet is capable of carrying a range of advanced weaponry, including the PL – 15 air – to – air missile, which has a reported range exceeding 200 kilometers, placing it in the same class as Western equivalents such as the AIM – 120D AMRAAM.

In the realm of electronic warfare, the J – 10C is equipped with advanced countermeasures, including infrared decoys and chaff dispensers, which are designed to evade enemy radar and missile locks. It also supports Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD) and Destruction of Enemy Air Defenses (DEAD) missions, capabilities that are critical for countering sophisticated air defense networks like those employed by Israel.

However, the electronic warfare capabilities of the J – 10C remain largely untested in high – intensity conflicts against adversaries such as Israel, which employs layered defenses and cutting – edge jamming systems. Integrating the J – 10C with Iran’s existing radio – electronic combat systems, such as the domestically developed Karrar drone, may encounter significant technical hurdles due to differences in Chinese and Iranian technology standards.

Compared to the Russian Su – 35, which Iran had previously pursued, the J – 10C presents distinct advantages in procurement. Priced between 60 million and 90 million per unit, it is significantly less expensive than the Su – 35, which can cost over $100 million with full weapon packages. The single – engine design of the J – 10C contributes to lower maintenance costs, although it has less raw power and payload capacity than the twin – engine Su – 35.

Military equipment: Active electronically scanned array
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Summary: An active electronically scanned array (AESA) is a type of phased array antenna, which is a computer-controlled antenna array in which the beam of radio waves can be electronically steered to point in different directions without moving the antenna. In the AESA, each antenna element is connected to a small solid-state transmit/receive module (TRM) under the control of a computer, which performs the functions of a transmitter and/or receiver for the antenna. This contrasts with a passive electronically scanned array (PESA), in which all the antenna elements are connected to a single transmitter and/or receiver through phase shifters under the control of the computer. AESA’s main use is in radar, and these are known as active phased-array radar (APAR). The AESA is a more advanced, sophisticated, second-generation of the original PESA phased-array technology. PESAs can only emit a single beam of radio waves at a single frequency at a time. The PESA must utilize a Butler matrix if multiple beams are required. The AESA can radiate multiple beams of radio waves at multiple frequencies simultaneously. AESA radars can spread their signal emissions across a wider range of frequencies, which makes them more difficult to detect over background noise, allowing ships and aircraft to radiate powerful radar signals while still remaining stealthy, as well as being more resistant to jamming. Hybrids of AESA and PESA can also be found consisting of subarrays that individually resemble PESAs, where each subarray has its own RF front end. Using a hybrid approach, the benefits of AESA (e.g., multiple independent beams) can be realized at a lower cost compared to pure AESA.

Get more information about: Active electronically scanned array

Su-35 fighter jet — Sukhoi-57: UAC Misses 2024 Production Target For Felons; Russian Air Force Gets New Batch Of Su …, Photo by eurasiantimes.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Its compatibility with modern network – centric warfare systems also renders it a potentially more flexible platform to meet Iran’s needs, particularly in scenarios that require rapid deployment against regional threats. The collapse of the Su – 35 deal is attributed to a combination of geopolitical and economic factors, primarily due to Russia’s war in Ukraine, which has strained its defense industry and led to delays or reallocations of orders.

Iran’s search for alternatives was facilitated by a pivotal development on June 24, 2025, when the United States lifted the sanctions on China’s purchase of Iranian oil. Tehran had previously proposed to barter oil and gas for the jets, a proposal that Beijing had rejected, insisting on cash payments. The easing of sanctions removed this barrier, enabling Iran to potentially utilize its oil revenue to fund the J – 10C acquisition.

According to Kommersant, negotiations have been scaled down from an ambitious target of 150 jets to a more modest 36 aircraft, reflecting Iran’s financial constraints and China’s cautious approach to large – scale arms exports. China’s growing influence in the global arms market also plays a role in Tehran’s decision – making.

The J – 10C’s recent combat success with the Pakistan Air Force has enhanced its reputation. The National Security Journal reported that Pakistan is reported to have used the jet to shoot down Indian Rafale fighters in a May 2025 clash, giving Pakistan a decisive advantage with the J – 10C’s PL – 15 missiles and AESA radar – a performance that likely drew Iran’s attention as it assessed its options.

Iran China defense deal — US hegemony — 9DASHLINE — Articles, Photo by squarespace-cdn.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

China’s willingness to supply not only aircraft but also air – defense systems and radars, as reported by Pravda, further renders a deal with Beijing appealing to Tehran, providing a more comprehensive package in comparison to potential Western options that are restricted by sanctions.

The acquisition of 36 J – 10C jets could significantly enhance Iran’s air – defense capabilities, especially against regional threats. The long range of the PL – 15 missile and the advanced radar of the J – 10C could improve Iran’s ability to engage enemy aircraft at greater distances, potentially offering a layer of deterrence against future strikes similar to those witnessed in the recent conflict. The multi – role capabilities of the jet would also enable it to carry out precision strikes against ground targets, a capability that is critically needed considering Iran’s reliance on outdated F – 4s for such missions.

However, the limitations of acquiring only 36 aircraft are evident. This quantity, even if delivered promptly, cannot replace the entire aging fleet of the IRIAF or fundamentally narrow the technological gap with adversaries such as Israel’s F – 35s and F – 15s. The 12 – day war exposed Iran’s broader vulnerabilities, including a lack of integrated air – defense networks and inadequate pilot training, issues that the J – 10C alone cannot resolve.

Israeli strikes on nuclear facilities during the conflict demonstrated the effectiveness of coordinated electronic warfare and stealth tactics, areas in which Iran currently lags far behind. The J – 10C, while representing a technological advancement for Iran, is not a stealth aircraft and cannot, on its own, address these systemic issues or provide the deep – penetration capabilities of fifth – generation fighters.

Military equipment: Aircraft
Categories: Aircraft, All articles containing potentially dated statements, All articles needing additional references, All articles to be expanded, All articles with empty sections, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles containing potentially dated statements from 2016, Articles needing additional references from April 2025, Articles to be expanded from April 2025, Articles to be expanded from March 2025, Articles with empty sections from April 2025, Articles with empty sections from March 2025, Articles with short description, Articles with unsourced statements from May 2025, CS1 French-language sources (fr), Commons category link from Wikidata, Short description is different from Wikidata, Use dmy dates from January 2025, Webarchive template wayback links
Summary: An aircraft (pl. aircraft) is a vehicle that is able to fly by gaining support from the air. It counters the force of gravity by using either static lift or the dynamic lift of an airfoil, or, in a few cases, direct downward thrust from its engines. Common examples of aircraft include airplanes, rotorcraft (including helicopters), airships (including blimps), gliders, paramotors, and hot air balloons. Part 1 (Definitions and Abbreviations) of Subchapter A of Chapter I of Title 14 of the U. S. Code of Federal Regulations states that aircraft “means a device that is used or intended to be used for flight in the air. The human activity that surrounds aircraft is called aviation. The science of aviation, including designing and building aircraft, is called aeronautics. Crewed aircraft are flown by an onboard pilot, whereas unmanned aerial vehicles may be remotely controlled or self-controlled by onboard computers. Aircraft may be classified by different criteria, such as lift type, aircraft propulsion (if any), usage and others.

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J-10C aircraft — File:J-10CE for Pakistan air force in Zhuhai airshow 2024.jpg – Wikimedia Commons, Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC Zero

Integrating the J – 10C into Iran’s air force poses considerable logistical challenges. Iran has no prior experience in operating Chinese combat aircraft, which differ markedly from its existing American and Russian platforms. Establishing a new supply chain for spare parts, training pilots on the new system, and developing the necessary maintenance infrastructure will necessitate substantial investment and time.

China’s practice of restricting access to software codes and system interfaces, as seen in its arms deals with other countries, could further complicate the situation for Iran. Without full access to the J – 10C’s software, Iran may find it difficult to carry out local modifications, perform complex maintenance tasks, or fully integrate the jet with its existing command and control systems. The cost and complexity of constructing this new logistical infrastructure are likely to be significant, potentially diverting resources from other crucial defense priorities.

Iran’s endeavors to maintain its aging F – 14 Tomcats, for instance, have depended on reverse engineering and cannibalization of existing airframes, a challenging process that has kept only a fraction of that fleet in operational condition. The Middle East Forum pointed out that Iran’s ability to sustain the J – 10C in a combat – ready state over the long term will heavily rely on Beijing’s willingness to offer consistent support, a factor that remains uncertain considering China’s cautious approach to technology transfers and after – sales service in certain deals.

Military equipment: Chengdu J-10
Name: J-10 Vigorous Dragon
Caption: PL-12,air-to-air missile
Type: Multirole combat aircraft
NationalOrigin: China
Manufacturer: Chengdu Aircraft Corporation
FirstFlight: 23 March 1998
DesignGroup: Chengdu Aircraft Design Institute
Introduction: 2004
Status: In service
PrimaryUser: People’s Liberation Army Air Force
MoreUsers: Pakistan Air Force
Produced: [object Object]
NumberBuilt: [object Object]
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Summary: The Chengdu J-10 Vigorous Dragon (Chinese: 歼-10 猛龙; pinyin: Jiān-10 Měnglóng; NATO reporting name: Firebird) is a Chinese medium-weight, single-engine, multirole combat aircraft using a delta wing and canard design, with a maximum speed of Mach 1.8. It is produced by the Chengdu Aircraft Corporation (CAC) for the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) and People’s Liberation Army Naval Air Force (PLANAF) of China, and exported to the Pakistan Air Force (PAF). The J-10 is mainly designed for air-to-air combat, but can also perform strike missions.

Get more information about: Chengdu J-10

Israel F-35 — File:IAF-F-35I-Adir.jpg – Wikimedia Commons, Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

The potential acquisition of the J – 10C by Iran is unlikely to go unnoticed by its regional rivals. Israel, which maintains air superiority through its fleet of F – 35s and F – 15s, may expedite its plans to enhance stealth capabilities. CNN reported that Israel is already engaged in talks with the United States regarding additional F – 35 deliveries, a move regarded as a response to emerging threats and the evolving regional military landscape.

The Israeli Air Force’s demonstrated ability to penetrate Iranian airspace during the recent conflict indicates that the J – 10C, although an improvement over Iran’s current inventory, will not fundamentally change the existing balance of power in the near future. Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, both crucial U.S. allies with modern air forces, are also likely to react to Iran’s modernization initiatives.

Saudi Arabia’s air force operates advanced F – 15SA jets, while the UAE has recently procured French Rafale fighters. The introduction of J – 10Cs in Iran could incite these nations to invest more in new platforms, such as the American F – 15EX or the European Eurofighter Typhoon, to preserve their qualitative superiority. The risk of an arms race in the Persian Gulf region is deemed real, with potential repercussions for stability.

Iran’s shift to China for defense equipment reflects a broader trend of Beijing’s increasing influence in the Middle East. Unlike Russia and the United States, which have historically dominated the region’s arms market, China provides cost – effective, combat – proven platforms like the J – 10C and JF – 17, which are appealing to nations facing sanctions or seeking alternatives to Western suppliers.

Chinese aircraft J-10C — PLA Air Force J-10B | L.G. Images | Flickr, Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under PDM 1.0

The success of Chinese aircraft such as the J – 10C in conflicts, exemplified by the reported engagement during the Pakistan – India air campaign, has enhanced China’s credibility as a defense supplier. According to Newsweek, Chinese commentators have even proposed that Iran’s air defenses might have performed more effectively during the recent conflict with Israel if they had been equipped with Chinese weaponry, a claim that highlights Beijing’s ambition to challenge Western dominance in the global arms trade.

The appeal of the J – 10C lies in its combination of affordability and technological sophistication. Its AESA radar and PL – 15 missiles constitute a substantial technological advancement for nations unable to gain access to or afford high – end Western fighters like the F – 35 or Rafale. China’s broader strategy encompasses not only aircraft sales but also the export of integrated air defense systems, such as the Hongqi series, which could potentially supplement Iran’s existing capabilities and establish a more multi – tiered defense network.

However, depending on Chinese technology for critical defense assets entails inherent risks, including potential limitations on future software updates, access to sensitive technical data, and the previously mentioned challenges in obtaining long – term maintenance support. These factors could ultimately constrain Iran’s operational independence and the long – term efficacy of the J – 10C fleet.

Iran’s decision to pursue the Chengdu J – 10C also prompts inquiries as to whether alternative options might have been more appropriate or viable. The Sino – Pakistani JF – 17 Block III, for instance, which shares compatibility with the J – 10C’s AESA radar and PL – 15 missiles, is a more cost – effective alternative that could potentially have been taken into account. Priced significantly lower at around $30 million per unit, the JF – 17, a joint venture between Pakistan and China, provides a cost – efficient platform with similar key capabilities.

Iran JF-17 aircraft — File:JF17-10-114-1748.jpg – Wikimedia Commons, Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

Military equipment: CAC/PAC JF-17 Thunder
Name: JF-17 Thunder ,FC-1 Xiaolong
Caption: Pakistan Air Force
Type: Multirole combat aircraft,light fighter
NationalOrigin: China
Manufacturer: Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group
FirstFlight: 25 August 2003
Introduction: 12 March 2007
Status: In service
PrimaryUser: Pakistan Air Force
MoreUsers: Myanmar Air Force,Nigerian Air Force,Azerbaijani Air Forces
Produced: In China: June 2007 – present,In Pakistan: January 2008 – present
NumberBuilt: 177 (operational) 93 (on order) 270 (total)
Categories: 2000s international fighter aircraft, Aircraft first flown in 2003, Aircraft specs templates using improper note parameter, Aircraft with retractable tricycle landing gear, All accuracy disputes, All articles containing potentially dated statements, All articles lacking reliable references, All articles to be expanded, All articles with dead external links, All articles with self-published sources, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles containing Urdu-language text, Articles containing potentially dated statements from 2016, Articles containing simplified Chinese-language text, Articles lacking reliable references from July 2021, Articles to be expanded from July 2021, Articles with dead external links from November 2023, Articles with disputed statements from May 2021, Articles with permanently dead external links, Articles with self-published sources from July 2021, Articles with short description, Articles with unsourced statements from January 2024, Articles with unsourced statements from June 2022, Articles with unsourced statements from June 2023, Articles with unsourced statements from November 2020, Articles with unsourced statements from October 2020, CS1 French-language sources (fr), CS1 Indonesian-language sources (id), CS1 Spanish-language sources (es), CS1 Urdu-language sources (ur), Chengdu aircraft, China–Pakistan military relations, Commons category link from Wikidata, Fourth-generation jet fighters, Mid-wing aircraft, Pages with non-numeric formatnum arguments, Pakistan Aeronautical Complex aircraft, Pakistani military aircraft, Short description is different from Wikidata, Single-engined jet aircraft, Supersonic aircraft, Use British English from July 2014, Use dmy dates from December 2019, Webarchive template wayback links
Summary: The CAC/PAC JF-17 Thunder (Urdu: جے ایف-17 گرج), or FC-1 Xiaolong (Chinese: 枭龙; pinyin: Xiāo Lóng; lit. ‘Fierce Dragon’), is a fourth-generation, lightweight, single-engine, multirole combat aircraft developed jointly by the Chengdu Aircraft Corporation (CAC) of China and the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC). It was designed and developed as a replacement for the third-generation A-5C, F-7P/PG, Mirage III, and Mirage 5 combat aircraft in the Pakistan Air Force (PAF). The JF-17 can be used for multiple roles, including interception, ground attack, anti-ship, and aerial reconnaissance. The Pakistani designation “JF-17” stands for “Joint Fighter-17”, with the “Joint Fighter” denoting the joint Pakistani-Chinese development of the aircraft and the “-17” denoting that, in the PAF’s vision, it is the successor to the F-16. The Chinese designation “FC-1” stands for “Fighter China-1”. The JF-17 can deploy diverse ordnance, including air-to-air, air-to-surface, and anti-ship missiles, guided and unguided bombs, and a 23 mm GSh-23-2 twin-barrel autocannon. Powered by a Guizhou WS-13 or Klimov RD-93 afterburning turbofan, it has a top speed of Mach 1.6. The JF-17 is the backbone and workhorse of the PAF, complementing the Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcon at approximately half the cost, with the Block II variant costing $25 million. The JF-17 was inducted in the PAF in February 2010. Fifty-eight percent of the JF-17 airframe, including its front fuselage, wings, and vertical stabilizer, is produced in Pakistan, whereas forty-two percent is produced in China, with the final assembly and serial production taking place in Pakistan. In 2015, Pakistan produced 16 JF-17s. As of 2016, PAC has the capacity to produce 20 JF-17s annually. By April 2017, PAC had manufactured 70 Block 1 aircraft and 33 Block 2 aircraft for the PAF. By 2016, PAF JF-17s had accumulated over 19,000 hours of operational flight. In 2017, PAC/CAC began developing a dual-seat variant known as the JF-17B for enhanced operational capability, conversion training, and lead-in fighter training. The JF-17B Block 2 variant went into serial production at PAC in 2018 and 26 aircraft were delivered to the PAF by December 2020. In December 2020, PAC began serial production of a more advanced Block 3 version of the aircraft with an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, a more powerful Russian Klimov RD-93MA engine, a larger and more advanced wide-angle Head-Up Display (HUD), electronic countermeasures, an additional hardpoint, and enhanced weapons capability. PAF JF-17s have seen military action, both air-to-air and air-to-ground, including bombing terrorist positions in North Waziristan near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border during anti-terror operations in 2014 and 2017 using both guided and unguided munitions, shooting down an intruding Iranian military drone near the Pakistan-Iran Border in Balochistan in 2017, in Operation Swift Retort during the 2019 Jammu and Kashmir airstrikes and aerial skirmish between India and Pakistan, and during Operation Marg Bar Sarmachar in 2024 in which Pakistan launched a series of air and artillery strikes inside Iran’s Sistan and Baluchestan province targeting Baloch separatist groups. In March and December 2024, PAF JF-17s were used in cross-border airstrikes against Pakistani Taliban hideouts inside Afghanistan. Nigerian Air Force (NAF) JF-17s have seen military action in anti-terrorism and anti-insurgency operations in Nigeria. Myanmar Air Force has also frequently deployed its JF-17 fleet against various insurgent groups. During the May 2025 India–Pakistan conflict, the PAF deployed JF-17s in combat in both the air-to-air and air-to-ground roles.

Get more information about: CAC/PAC JF-17 Thunder

Iran air force technological gap — COMMENTARY: Let’s Put the ‘Tech’ into Military Technology Policy, Photo by airandspaceforces.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Military equipment: Chengdu J-36
Name: J-36
Type: Stealth aircraft,multirole aircraft
NationalOrigin: China
Manufacturer: Chengdu Aircraft Corporation
FirstFlight: Unknown, first publicly observed on 26 December 2024
Status: Flight testing
NumberBuilt: 1 protoype
Categories: 2020s Chinese fighter aircraft, Aircraft first flown in 2024, Aircraft with retractable tricycle landing gear, Articles containing Chinese-language text, Articles with short description, Chengdu aircraft, Short description is different from Wikidata, Stealth aircraft, Tailless delta-wing aircraft, Trijets
Summary: The Chengdu J-36 (Chinese: 歼-36; pinyin: Jiān Sānliù) is a speculative designation given by military analysts to a trijet tailless diamond-double-delta winged aircraft under development by the Chengdu Aircraft Corporation (CAC). As part of China’s sixth-generation aircraft development program, the heavy stealth aircraft is envisioned for multiple mission set, including air superiority, strike, interception and command and control of aircraft teaming operations. On 26 December 2024, an aircraft believed to be a J-36 was spotted conducting test flights in Chengdu, Sichuan, China. Since the aircraft’s serial number (36011) begins with ’36,’ following the People’s Liberation Army Air Force convention, this model was presumably designated as J-36.

Get more information about: Chengdu J-36

However, the planned procurement of merely 36 jets, combined with the formidable logistical challenges associated with integrating a new platform and the technological disparity with regional competitors, indicates that Iran’s air force will probably remain at a substantial disadvantage against adversaries such as Israel in the near to medium term. China’s increasingly prominent role as a defense supplier introduces a new dimension to the Middle East’s geopolitical landscape. Nevertheless, it is yet to be determined whether Iran can successfully surmount its systemic vulnerabilities and integrate this new capability with sufficient effectiveness to significantly alter the regional air power balance.