In a significant escalation of regional tensions, Pakistan’s use of Chinese-made J-10 fighter jets has reportedly resulted in the downing of at least two Indian military aircraft, including a French-made Rafale, according to U.S. officials. This marks the first confirmed instance of Chinese combat aircraft being used in active air-to-air engagements against Western-made fighters.

The incident occurred amid heightened hostilities between India and Pakistan, following India’s Operation Sindoor, which targeted alleged terrorist infrastructure within Pakistan. While Pakistan claims to have shot down five Indian aircraft in total, India has not acknowledged any losses, stating instead that its strikes were successful.

The deployment and effectiveness of the J-10 jets are being closely monitored by international observers, particularly concerning their implications for future conflicts involving Chinese military technology. The situation has prompted calls for restraint from global powers, including the U.S., Russia, and China, to prevent further escalation in one of the world’s most volatile regions.

Source: Reuters