In a simulated air combat scenario that sent shockwaves across global defense circles, a Chinese fourth-generation J-10C fighter jet reportedly “shot down” the fifth-generation J-20 stealth aircraft. This remarkable outcome was not the result of superior aircraft capabilities but stemmed from China’s increasingly sophisticated and integrated network-centric warfare doctrine.
The news first surfaced in a cryptic post by China Bugle, a media outlet closely affiliated with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), and was soon elaborated on by China Central Television (CCTV). According to official reports, the J-10C was able to achieve a simulated kill on the J-20 due to seamless cooperation with airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) and electronic warfare (EW) assets.
In this simulated engagement, the J-10C was far from operating alone. It was part of a networked triad that included the KJ-500 AEW&C aircraft and the J-16D electronic warfare platform—elements now critical in PLA’s playbook for integrated air dominance operations.
According to CCTV, J-10C pilot Xiao Nan described the high-stakes moment when his aircraft lost radar contact with the stealthy target shortly after missile launch. Realizing he may be facing a J-20 or under electronic jamming, Xiao immediately called for system support.
“After launching the missile, I couldn’t detect the target anymore,” Xiao said. “I requested a friendly unit to search for it, suspecting either a stealth aircraft or radar jamming.”
Offboard targeting data—most likely relayed by the KJ-500—allowed the missile to reacquire and destroy the target in simulation, confirming a kill against the J-20. Xiao emphasized that such a feat would be impossible without coordinated system support.
“Without the support of the system, there would be no chance to defeat a stealth aircraft. But with the system support, the J-10C is still at its prime,” he concluded.
The simulated battle was not just about one aircraft outmaneuvering another. The broader scope of the exercise involved seizing contested airspace and neutralizing fixed defensive installations. This aligns with China’s growing emphasis on joint operations and real-time data fusion across airframes.
Analysts say this reflects a strategic pivot in PLA doctrine. Rather than relying solely on fifth-generation fighters like the J-20, the PLA is increasingly favoring multi-platform synergy that makes even fourth-generation fighters formidable when properly networked.
Wang Ya’nan, editor-in-chief of Aerospace Knowledge, told the Global Times that in a conventional one-on-one scenario, the J-10C would be outclassed by the J-20. However, the outcome of this simulation proves that when paired with modern AEW&C and EW support, generational gaps can be narrowed or even neutralized.
“Early warning aircraft may have provided critical targeting information, enabling the J-10C to lock onto the J-20,” Wang said.
The KJ-500 AEW&C aircraft plays a central role in this shift. Capable of detecting stealth aircraft by integrating sensor data and relaying it through secure links, the KJ-500 functions as the nerve center of system warfare. The J-16D complements this by jamming enemy radar and disrupting communications.
Together, these elements exemplify China’s adoption of a “system-of-systems” approach to aerial warfare—similar to doctrines practiced by NATO forces.
The symbolic defeat of the J-20—China’s most advanced stealth aircraft—by a J-10C sends a powerful message, both internally and externally. Internally, it showcases the PLA’s maturity in developing coordinated warfare capabilities. Externally, it assures regional adversaries that China’s fourth-generation fleet remains relevant and dangerous.
This is particularly crucial considering the vast number of J-10Cs in service. With over 240 operational units, the J-10C forms the backbone of PLA Air Force (PLAAF) airpower. Its modern avionics, low operating costs, and high sortie rate make it ideal for frequent patrols and large-scale exercises.
For prospective export clients in Asia and Africa, this event is a compelling demonstration of the J-10C’s operational value when integrated into a broader defense architecture. It could boost China’s defense exports, especially if bundled with AEW&C and EW platforms.
Western observers are also taking note. The event underscores the evolving nature of air combat, where information dominance, not just platform superiority, dictates victory. China’s simulation is a clear indication that its air strategy now mirrors cutting-edge networked doctrines seen in the U.S. Air Force.
Despite being from different generations, the J-10C and J-20 play complementary roles in China’s aerial strategy.
The J-10C, a multirole, single-engine aircraft, is equipped with AESA radar, precision-guided munitions, and integrated datalink capabilities. It forms the frontline fighter for the PLAAF and is crucial for regular patrols in sensitive regions like the Taiwan Strait and South China Sea.
The J-20, on the other hand, is a fifth-generation stealth fighter designed for long-range interception and air superiority. With features such as internal weapons bays, radar-absorbing materials, and potentially supercruise capability, it is the spearhead of China’s effort to rival the U.S. in high-end air warfare.
As of 2025, estimates suggest China has delivered over 150 J-20s, with units stationed in elite brigades operating near Taiwan. J-20 production has accelerated significantly following the successful integration of the indigenous WS-10C engine.
However, due to its complexity and high cost, the J-20 is unlikely to match the J-10C in numerical deployment. This makes the J-10C’s continued relevance critical. Its ability to support the J-20 and perform a wide range of missions ensures operational flexibility for the PLAAF.
The simulated kill has brought renewed attention to China’s command-and-control (C2) architecture. With BeiDou satellite navigation, secure datalinks, and increasingly capable ISR (intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance) nodes, China appears confident in managing large-scale air battles.
Rather than fielding more stealth aircraft to counter U.S. fifth-generation platforms, China seems focused on building a multi-layered, networked force that can detect, jam, and engage adversaries with a range of platforms operating in harmony.
In this system, even fourth-generation fighters like the J-10C can strike fifth-generation opponents, not through brute force, but through coordinated action and superior situational.
