J-10 fighter gets local power boost
There is now sound photographic proof that the J-10C fighter powered by the indigenous WS10B engine is now in PLAAF service. (Photo: China National Radio)
Locally produced jet engines are now powering single-engine fighters of the PLAAF.
China has long struggled with developing advanced high-performance jet engines for fighters of the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF). However, a watershed has been reached with images of a J-10C fighter powered by a WS10B engine recently appearing on the Chinese internet.
An image from China National Radio showed a Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group (CAIG) J-10C with low-visibility PLA Air Force (PLAAF) markings taking off as part of live-fire exercises somewhere in China.
The mere fact that the WS10 engine is now employed on an operational J-10 fighter is not surprising, but what analysts have been seeking is proof
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![Indonesia receives first A400M, considers four more aircraft]()
Indonesia receives first A400M, considers four more aircraft
The A400M aircraft that has been delivered was first ordered in 2021 with a second aircraft due to arrive next year.
-
![Boeing prepared to go fast on CxR uncrewed tiltrotor concept]()
Boeing prepared to go fast on CxR uncrewed tiltrotor concept
The Collaborative Transformational Rotorcraft is designed with the potential to meet a range of mission requirements, from reconnaissance, surveillance and target acquisition to contested logistics.
-
![Anduril’s YFQ-44A successfully completes first flight test]()
Anduril’s YFQ-44A successfully completes first flight test
The drone is the second prototype to take flight under the US Air Force’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft programme.
-
![Italy moves to procure third batch of 29 AW249 helicopters]()
Italy moves to procure third batch of 29 AW249 helicopters
The €1.22 billion (US$1.41 billion) follow-on order for the additional helicopters will complement the 19 AW249 already ordered by Italy.
-
![October Drone Digest: Growing desire for CCAs and new VTOL technology unveiled]()
October Drone Digest: Growing desire for CCAs and new VTOL technology unveiled
During October 2025, several countries and organisations signalled their intention to acquire loyal wingman uncrewed aircraft systems — designated by the US Air Force as Collaborative Combat Aircraft — or to study the capability further, while various new uncrewed helicopters were showcased.
-
![Australia starts upgrade programme for P-8A Poseidon fleet]()
Australia starts upgrade programme for P-8A Poseidon fleet
The upgrades will work to strengthen the country’s maritime surveillance and anti-submarine capabilities, with one more aircraft due to be delivered by 2026.
