China's Engineers Aid Pakistan in Alleged Downfall of Indian Rafale Jet Chinese engineers worked alongside Pakistani military personnel during the May 2024 conflict with India, according to state media reports. The collaboration, confirmed for the first time publicly, involved technical support for Pakistan’s J-10CE fighter jets, which Pakistan claims shot down an Indian Rafale aircraft. The incident, if verified, would mark the first recorded combat loss of a Rafale, a highly advanced French-built jet. India has acknowledged losses but not confirmed specific damages. The Chinese team, stationed at a support base in Pakistan, provided on-site assistance to ensure the J-10CEs operated at peak efficiency. Zhang Heng, an engineer from the Chengdu Aircraft Design and Research Institute, described the environment as extremely challenging, with temperatures nearing 50 degrees Celsius and constant air raid sirens. He emphasized the team’s goal of ensuring the aircraft “truly perform at its full combat potential.” Zhang highlighted the significance of the mission, stating it was “not just a recognition of the J-10CE” but also a testament to the “deep bond” formed through collaboration with Pakistani personnel. Another engineer, Xu Da, likened the fighter jets to “children” nurtured over years before being handed to Pakistan. He noted the J-10CE’s combat success was “inevitable,” as the aircraft was “ready for the right opportunity.” Pakistan’s reliance on Chinese military technology extends beyond the J-10CE. The country’s air force operates 36 J-10CE fighters, an export version of China’s J-10C, equipped with advanced AESA radar and long-range PL-15 missiles. These jets, along with the jointly developed JF-17, form the backbone of Pakistan’s air defense.#pakistan #china #j10ce #chengdu_aircraft_design_and_research_institute #stockholm_international_peace_research_institute
