An article in the "Handelsblatt" pointed out that after India and Pakistan announced a ceasefire, the focus of attention has shifted to China's role in this conflict. There are signs indicating that during the air combat between India and Pakistan, Chinese fighter jets performed better than Western ones.
According to a report by the "Handelsblatt", two weeks after the outbreak of intense military conflicts between India and Pakistan, Pakistani Foreign Minister Qureshi visited Beijing and expressed heartfelt gratitude for "China's efforts to promote peace". This report titled "The Glory Moment of Chinese Fighter Jets" wrote:
"Pakistan's high-profile expression of gratitude is not without reason: in this India-Pakistan conflict, Chinese weapons may have given the Islamabad government a decisive advantage. China is Pakistan's main arms supplier, but the extent to which China was involved in this month's military escalation remains unclear. Increasing evidence suggests that military cooperation with China seems to have become Pakistan's winning strategy against India."
This is the first time that weapon systems from China have been showcased in actual combat, and they have clashed with Western weapons. While South Asia is filled with unease, the performance of Chinese weapons has sparked celebrations domestically.
The spotlight is on the J-10C fighter jets produced by Chengdu Aircraft Industrial Group. Three and a half years ago, the Pakistani military, as the first foreign army, ordered these fighter jets from China. A few months later, the first batch of aircraft were delivered. The Pakistani government claimed that during this India-Pakistan conflict, these fighter jets achieved remarkable success upon their first deployment.
Previously, Pakistani Foreign Minister Qureshi had stated in parliament that the Chinese-made J-10C fighter jets had shot down five Indian fighter jets, including three "Rafale" fighters purchased from Dassault Group. Qureshi said he had informed the Chinese embassy in Pakistan about this achievement, and the Chinese side also expressed great satisfaction. He said: "Because we are friendly countries, they showed great joy."
Pakistani claims cannot be independently verified at present. India refused to comment on this, and the Chinese Foreign Ministry said they were "not aware of the relevant situation". Videos circulating on social media seem to confirm at least one "Rafale" fighter jet being shot down. Reuters previously reported that US officials said at least two Indian aircraft were shot down, including a French "Rafale".
The "Handelsblatt" report pointed out that if the above achievements are ultimately confirmed, it will be the first time that European-made "Rafale" fighter jets have been shot down in actual combat, and also the biggest practical victory for Chinese fighter jets so far. China's success in military technology could have far-reaching geopolitical implications.
"However, at least part of India's military technology advantages have been refuted. The New Delhi government stated: [Indian Air Force successfully bypassed and interfered with China-provided air defense systems in Pakistan, completing the mission in just 23 minutes, thus demonstrating India's technological superiority]."
Source: DW
Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1832928309218699/
Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author.