China confirms it helped Pakistan’s air force during last year’s war with India

China has confirmed for the first time that it provided on-site technical support to the Pakistani air force during a war with India in 2025.

The confirmation was made via an interview broadcast by the Chinese state broadcaster CCTV. The network featured Zhang Heng, an engineer from the Chengdu Aircraft Design and Research Institute, which is part of the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC). Zhang provided technical support to Pakistan during the conflict.

During the hostilities, a Chinese-made fighter jet shot down at least one French-made fighter jet operated by India. The Pakistani air force utilizes Chinese-made J-10CE jets, one of which is reported to have downed a French-made Rafale fighter jet.

The engagement marks two significant military milestones: it was the first reported instance of a Chinese-made fighter downing an enemy aircraft, and the first time a Rafale fighter jet has been shot down.

Operational Support and Conditions

In the interview with CCTV, Zhang Heng described the environment at the support base during the conflict. He noted that the base was characterized by the constant sound of air-raid sirens and the roar of fighter jets taking off.

Zhang highlighted the physical challenges faced by the technical team, stating that by late morning in May, temperatures at the site were approaching 50 degrees Celsius. He described the conditions as a mental and physical ordeal for the personnel involved.

According to Zhang, the motivation for the team was a desire to do an even better job with on‑site support to ensure that the aircraft and equipment could truly perform at its full combat potential.