China-made J-10C fighter jets to participate in the flying pass on Pakistan Day: Interior Minister

Rawalpindi: Minister for Interior Sheikh Rashid Ahmed has said that this year on Pakistan Day (March 23), the China-made J-10C fighter jets would participate in the flying pass.

Speaking to journalists here, Ahmed mentioned that the flying pass by Chinese J-10C would be a worthy gesture to celebrate Pakistan-China friendship.

Ahmed informed that Pakistan had procured 25 Chinese multi-role J-10C fighter jets. He elaborated that jets are manufactured by Chengdu Aerospace Corporation.

“Delivery of the jets is likely soon. The full squadron is expected to attend the March 23 Pakistan Day Parade,” he remarked.

The J-10C, referred to by NATO as a “Firebird” and also known as “Vigorous Dragon,” is a single-engine, lightweight multi-role fighter that can fly in all weather conditions. China designed the aircraft to carry out strikes during air-to-air combat missions.

The aircraft has a large delta wing reminiscent of the French Mirage series of fighters, and two canards right behind the cockpit to give it more maneuverability and control. Like the Mirage 2000, the J-10C is designed to give relaxed stability.

The payload of the Chinese jet is said to be 6.5 tonnes, which is similar to the Russian MiG-29 (4.5 tonnes) and US-made F-16s (7 tonnes).