China has officially confirmed that it provided on-site technical assistance to Pakistan during Operation Sindoor, a retaliatory military operation against alleged terror activities in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. This marked the first public acknowledgment of the level of collaboration observed between the two countries. The statement came from Zhang Heng, an engineer associated with the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), who was interviewed by Chinese state broadcaster CCTV.

During the interview, Zhang provided insights into the cooperation that took place during the military operation in May 2025. He outlined that his team delivered vital support to the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) during a period described as intense and challenging. Zhang’s assertions were reported in the Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post.

The Chengdu Aircraft Design and Research Institute, where Zhang works, is a pivotal organisation in the development of China’s advanced military aircraft, including fighter jets and unmanned aerial vehicles.

First-Hand Accounts of the Operation

In recounting his experience, Zhang mentioned the constant noise of fighter jets taking off and the ominous sound of air-raid sirens during the four days of the operation. The extreme temperatures, reportedly reaching nearly 50 degrees Celsius, added to the difficulties faced by the team. He expressed the commitment of his engineers to ensure that the equipment they supported performed effectively in combat scenarios.

Zhang elaborated on the J-10CE fighter jet, developed by the Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group. He indicated that the performance of this aircraft in combat settings was crucial, highlighting the strong bond created between his team and the PAF throughout this collaborative effort. Another engineer from the same institute, Xu Da, further characterised the J-10CE fighter as akin to a “child,” reflecting the dedication involved in its development and testing.

This level of military cooperation is consistent with the long-standing relationship between China and Pakistan, where Pakistan has been utilised as a testing ground for Chinese military technologies. Previous statements from defence officials indicated that support from China to Pakistan extended beyond hardware to include intelligence sharing and satellite imaging.

Implications of the Disclosure

The confirmation of direct involvement by Chinese engineers during Operation Sindoor is significant as it underscores the depth of military integration between China and Pakistan. Observers note that this development suggests that any future military engagements involving Pakistan may increasingly feature Chinese technological systems and intelligence coordination.

Additionally, the reliance of Pakistan on Chinese military equipment has been well documented. Recent statistics suggest that over 80 per cent of Pakistan’s military imports over the past five years originated from China. This extensive partnership allows for greater operational synergy between the two nations, particularly in times of conflict.

Furthermore, the use of the J-10CE fighter by the PAF in Operation Sindoor highlights Pakistan’s unique position, as it is the only operator of this advanced fighter jet variant outside China. The ongoing integration of Chinese military technology into Pakistan’s armed forces raises questions regarding future military strategies and the potential for collaborative initiatives in defense capabilities.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share