The escalating India-Pakistan tensions following the bloody attack in Kashmir have dangerously deteriorated diplomatic, military and trade relations between the two nuclear powers. In this critical environment, Pakistan has made a show of force by releasing the first official images of its JF-10C Block III fighter jets equipped with Chinese-made PL-15 and PL-17 air-to-air missiles in its air force inventory. This move and the harsh statements that accompanied it have further increased concerns about a new military conflict between the two neighboring countries, which have previously fought three wars.
Serious Threats from India, Decisive Response from Pakistan
Following the attack, India vowed to retaliate, and took a step not even taken in previous wars, threatening to cut off the flow of a major river system that flows into Pakistan. Pakistan rejected India's unilateral decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty, and stressed that any attempt to change the flow of water in rivers, which it considered to be its legal right, was completely unacceptable.
In response to India’s harsh stance, the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has unveiled JF-17C fighter jets equipped with advanced missile systems. Pakistani officials have confirmed for the first time that the fighter jets can carry the PL-15, a long-range, active radar-guided air-to-air missile developed by China.
PL-15 Could Change Regional Balance
According to the Defense Blog, the PL-10 missile, known by its NATO reporting name CH-AA-15 Abaddon, has similar features to the US-made AIM-120D AMRAAM and Europe’s Meteor air-to-air missile. With this development, Pakistan has reached beyond visual range (BVR) capabilities on par with other top air forces thanks to these Chinese-made air-to-air missiles. In addition to the PL-15, the JF-17C can also carry the PL-10, a short-range infrared guided missile designed for close-in air combat scenarios. This combination of missiles has the potential to significantly increase Pakistan’s air defense and offensive capabilities, affecting the military balance in the region. The released images are being interpreted as Pakistan’s message of creating deterrence in the face of escalating tensions and being prepared for a possible conflict.
