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Why the J-10C Could Outfight the F-22 and F-35 in Real Combat
The Chengdu J-10C, originally derived from a third-generation platform, has been transformed into a lethal 4.5-generation fighter through advanced electronics, integration with network-centric warfare, and access to China’s latest air-to-air missile systems. While the F-22 and F-35 are still considered the most advanced fighters in the West, they were designed with a platform-centric philosophy that is increasingly outdated in a system-vs-system combat environment.
1. The AWACS Advantage: KJ-500 vs E-3 and E-7
The J-10C doesn't operate alone—it functions as a node in a battle network that includes modern Chinese AWACS platforms like the KJ-500. This aircraft uses a fixed AESA radar array that offers true 360-degree coverage, fast refresh rates, and multi-target tracking capabilities.
In contrast, the U.S. Air Force relies primarily on the E-3 Sentry, a Cold War–era platform with mechanically scanned radar, and is only now introducing the E-7 Wedgetail in small numbers. China already fields dozens of modern AWACS, giving it a clear edge in airborne early warning and control.
The KJ-500 can feed targeting data directly to J-10C fighters, allowing them to remain passive while still engaging targets. This decouples the shooter's need for active radar emissions, giving the J-10C a massive tactical advantage in "first see, first shoot" engagements.
2. Datalink: China’s Integrated Network vs U.S. Fragmentation
The J-10C is fully integrated into the PLA’s combat datalink network, enabling it to receive real-time targeting information from AWACS, ground stations, UAVs, and other fighters. It can also provide mid-course guidance to its missiles based on external sensor data.
In contrast, the F-22’s Intra-Flight Datalink (IFDL) only allows communication between other F-22s and lacks full two-way Link-16 integration. The F-35’s Multifunction Advanced Datalink (MADL) is more capable but mostly restricted to F-35 formations, and it still struggles with full interoperability with legacy platforms and AWACS. As a result, U.S. stealth fighters often operate as information islands, unable to exploit the full be
2025-07-28 02:28:02