Qatari Eurofighter Typhoons and Pakistani Chengdu J-10Cs work together

The aircraft are operating together as part of the Zilzal-II air exercise currently being hosted by Qatar.

The exercise is believed to be the first overseas deployment of the Pakistani J-10 fleet, which entered service in March 2022.

According to the Pakistan Air Force, the J-10s will “face off” against the Eurofighters, potentially providing an understanding of the effectiveness of the Chinese platform against its Western counterpart.

Both aircraft feature an active electronically scanned array radar and can use beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles—the MBDA Meteor for the Eurofighter and the export version of the PL-15 for the J-10C.

“The participation of these fighter jets [J-10Cs] in the aerial exercise marks a significant milestone in PAF’s journey toward a technologically advanced and formidable air force,” the PAF said. “The rapid acquisition and operationalisation of these advanced fighter aircraft showcases the PAF’s dedication to maintaining a cutting-edge force, capable of meeting evolving challenges and defending Pakistan’s airspace with utmost proficiency.”