Iran Eyes Chinese J-10C Fighter Jets After Russian Deal Falls Through
Iran is reportedly in advanced talks with China to purchase J-10C “Vigorous Dragon” fighter jets, as it looks to modernize its aging air force following the collapse of a deal with Russia. The move comes in the aftermath of heightened tensions with Israel and amid broader military recalibration.
According to reports from Russian defense Telegram channels, the negotiations took place during a recent visit by Iranian Defence Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh to Beijing. The discussions focused on the acquisition of the J-10CE, a Chinese-made 4++ generation multirole fighter jet. The aircraft is already in operational service with Pakistan, where it has been praised for its regional performance.
Iran’s interest in the J-10C comes after its 2023 deal with Russia to acquire 50 Su-35 fighter jets stalled. Only four aircraft were delivered before the agreement was frozen, reportedly due to logistical and political complications linked to Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine. The breakdown has left Tehran’s air force, which still relies heavily on U.S.-made aircraft from before the 1979 revolution, increasingly vulnerable.
The J-10C, described by military analysts as a cost-effective alternative to the American F-16V and Swedish Gripen E, features a single-engine design and multirole capabilities. Prices range from $60 million for the base version to around $90 million when fully outfitted with weapons systems, spares, and training packages, according to The New Voice of Ukraine.
This is not Iran’s first attempt to acquire the J-10C. Similar negotiations in 2015 reportedly collapsed due to U.N. arms embargo restrictions and payment disputes. China had demanded hard currency, while Iran offered oil and gas in a barter arrangement. Although the U.N. embargo expired in 2020, further talks failed to reach agreement due to ongoing concerns over payment mechanisms.
G7 Calls for Resumption of Iran Nuclear Deal Talks
As Tehran explores new military partnerships, the Group of Seven (G7) nations on Monday reiterated their support for a ceasefire between Iran and Israel and urged renewed diplomatic efforts over Iran’s nuclear program.
“We call for the resumption of negotiations, resulting in a comprehensive, verifiable and durable agreement that addresses Iran’s nuclear program,” the G7 foreign ministers said in a joint statement.
While Iran maintains that its nuclear activities are peaceful, Israel and several Western countries continue to express concern about Tehran’s uranium enrichment and its potential weapons capabilities. Since April, U.S. and Iranian officials have been engaged in indirect talks aimed at reviving a diplomatic solution.
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