Muslim Nations Consider Rafale Jets Despite Criticism, Exploring Aircraft with Advanced Radar Technology

Amid growing global interest in Chinese military technology, the J-10CE fighter jet is gaining traction among nations looking to enhance their air defense capabilities. Originally sold exclusively to Pakistan, these advanced aircraft are now attracting attention from other countries in the region, with Bangladesh and Indonesia formally expressing interest in procurement deals.

Indonesia has announced plans to purchase 42 Chengdu J-10C fighter jets from China in a deal valued at approximately $9 billion (roughly Rs 75,000 crore). Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin confirmed the country would soon acquire these jets as part of Indonesia’s military modernization program, though analysts caution the agreement could heighten regional tensions and carry significant geopolitical implications.

Similarly, Bangladesh’s interim government has indicated that acquiring Chinese J-10CE fighters has become a priority over Western alternatives. According to reports from Eurasian Times, discussions are underway for a procurement agreement valued at $2.2 billion for 20 aircraft. This figure encompasses acquisition costs, training, maintenance, and related expenses. The deal is expected to be finalized as a government-to-government agreement in fiscal year 2026 or 2027.

The J-10CE represents China’s 4.5-generation multirole fighter aircraft, an export variant of the J-10C developed by the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC). It marks China’s first modern fighter platform to feature an indigenous turbofan engine alongside advanced radar systems, avionics, and electronic warfare capabilities.

Among its most notable features is the Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, state-of-the-art electronic countermeasures technology, and a digital Helmet-Mounted Display/Sight system for managing air-to-air missiles. These specifications position the medium-weight aircraft as a formidable weapon in modern aerial combat scenarios.

Industry experts note that the J-10CE offers capabilities comparable to many Western fighter aircraft but at a considerably lower price point, making it an attractive option for countries with budget constraints but aspirations to modernize their air forces.

The increasing interest in these Chinese fighters may also be linked to propaganda campaigns following a four-day military clash between India and Pakistan in May this year. Pakistan has repeatedly claimed that its Chinese J-10CE jets shot down Indian Rafale aircraft during this confrontation—assertions that India has firmly denied.

China has reportedly amplified these claims through its diplomatic channels worldwide, with military analysts suggesting Beijing has successfully leveraged this narrative to rebrand the J-10CE as a “Rafale-killer.” This marketing strategy appears to have generated additional international interest in the aircraft and potentially boosted its export prospects.

This development comes amid shifting geopolitical dynamics in Asia, where China continues to expand its influence through military exports and strategic partnerships. The potential sales to Indonesia and Bangladesh represent a significant expansion of China’s defense export footprint and could signal a broader trend of nations in the region diversifying their military procurement sources beyond traditional Western suppliers.

As these deals progress toward finalization, defense experts will be closely monitoring their impact on regional power balances and strategic relationships, particularly as tensions persist between various nations in the Indo-Pacific region.