Uzbekistan’s recent confirmation that its air force has deployed China’s J-10CE multirole fighter marks a significant milestone for the aircraft’s export campaign, which has also included Pakistan’s operational use of the jet and Bangladesh’s pending procurement discussions. However, despite these developments, the J-10CE has yet to establish itself as a direct competitor capable of displacing Western fighters in key defense markets.
Pakistan remains the only current user of the J-10CE to have employed the aircraft in combat. During the conflict following India’s “Operation Sindoor” strikes in 2025, the Pakistan Air Force reported that its J-10CEs engaged Indian aircraft, claiming the downing of five enemy jets, including three Dassault Rafales. While Pakistani officials assert these figures, Dassault Aviation’s CEO Eric Trapier disputed the claims, noting the absence of official confirmation from India. Western sources have acknowledged at least one Rafale loss, but the total remains contested. Pakistan’s combat experience provides the Chinese fighter a unique selling point, as potential buyers can cite a real-world performance record rather than relying on untested capabilities.
Bangladesh is currently evaluating the J-10CE as part of its effort to modernize an air fleet largely composed of aging Chinese F-7s and Russian MiG-29s. A government adviser recently emphasized the aircraft’s “established” ability to counter Indian Rafale jets, thereby supporting a proposed acquisition. Local media reports suggest that Bangladesh aims to purchase around 20 J-10CEs at an estimated total cost exceeding $2.3 billion, with payments to be made through 2035-36 under a government-to-government deal with China National Aero-Technology Import & Export Corporation (CATIC). The effective unit cost, including training, logistics, and support, could be approximately $115 million per jet—almost double the flyaway price of $62.7 million. However, the purchase remains contingent on budget approval.
Bangladesh is keeping its options open amid competing offers. In late 2025, the Bangladesh Air Force signed a letter of intent with Italy’s Leonardo for up to 16 Eurofighter Typhoons, reflecting a preference to explore Western alternatives alongside the Chinese proposal. Neither option has evolved into formal contracts at this stage.
Uzbekistan’s air force, historically reliant on Russian platforms such as the MiG-29, Su-27, and Su-25, appears to be diversifying amid supply chain disruptions linked to the ongoing conflict involving Russia and Ukraine. While the arrival of J-10CE aircraft in Uzbekistan is confirmed, details of the procurement contract remain undisclosed, with reports indicating a possible acquisition of 24 jets worth around $1 billion. It is unclear whether Uzbekistan intends to phase out its Russian jets or supplement its fleet with Chinese fighters.
Other regional powers have yet to commit to the J-10CE despite rumors of interest. Indonesia, which ordered 42 Rafales in 2022, and Egypt, an existing Rafale operator, have not confirmed purchases of the Chinese fighter and continue to expand their Western-based fleets. Analysts note that until the J-10CE is formally chosen over Western competitors or corresponding contracts are signed, it will be viewed primarily as an emerging alternative rather than a market disruptor.
In summary, while the J-10CE is gaining a foothold among certain customers, it has not yet definitively challenged Western dominance in fighter sales. The aircraft’s ability to convert export interest into concrete orders against established competitors remains to be seen.