Chinese J-10C Fighter Evolves into a Network-Centric Warfare Node

The Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force’s J-10C fighter jet has transitioned from a stand-alone platform into a networked warfare node, sharing targeting data with airborne early warning aircraft and ground-based air defense systems.

State-controlled CCTV News reported that recent high-intensity drills involving J-10C units were conducted under complex electromagnetic conditions, coinciding with the 28th anniversary of the aircraft’s maiden flight. The exercises included confrontational combat, close-range dogfights, and penetration strike training.

Footage released by CCTV showed multiple J-10C fighters taking off in sequence and operating within an early warning-supported combat network in a contested electromagnetic environment. During the drills, aircraft shifted between beyond-visual-range engagements, mid-range combat, and close-range dogfights, while alternating between offensive and defensive roles.

According to CCTV Military, regular joint training now involves coordination between the J-10C and airborne early warning systems, as well as ground-based air defense, radar, and electronic warfare units. This reflects increasing integration among platforms as newer equipment is introduced.

Chinese military affairs expert Zhang Junshe told the Global Times that the evolution of the J-10C reflects a shift toward “system-of-systems” warfare, where multiple platforms operate in an integrated manner aligned with real combat conditions. He said coordination with aircraft such as the KJ-500 early warning platform enables detection of aerial targets at long range, with data on position, speed, and altitude transmitted to fighters via data links.

Zhang explained that this allows the J-10C to approach targets while keeping its radar emissions low, activating onboard systems only at closer range to confirm and engage. He added that coordination with ground-based air defense systems enables two-way data sharing, where ground radars can guide fighters toward low-altitude threats, while fighters can pass targeting information back to air defense units.

This exchange of information creates a combined air and ground operational framework, supporting both offensive and defensive missions. Zhang said such integration enhances survivability and improves coordinated operations for airspace defense.