Iran In Talks With China For J-10C Fighters: Report

Iran is currently negotiating with China to acquire J-10C fighter jets after its agreement with Russia for Su-35s fell through, reported News18.

Multiple media reports claim Iran seeks Chinese J-10C (Vigorous Dragon) fighter jets to replenish its air force following a recent conflict with Israel.

According to a report with the Russian Arms Telegram channel, Iranian Defence Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh visited China, reportedly to explore purchasing Chinese-made '4++ generation' J-10CE jets.

The New Voice of Ukraine describes the J-10C as a single-engine, multirole fighter, often described as a budget version of the Western F-16V or Sweden's Gripen E. Unit prices for the jet range from $60 million to around $90 million, equipped with weapons, spare parts, training, and warranty support.

Previously, Iran's deal to procure fighter jets from Russia did not work out, leaving Iran's air force in a weak position. In 2023, Iran signed a deal for 50 Russian Su-35s but only received four before Russia stopped deliveries due to its ongoing war.

Iran has previously tried to purchase the J-10C from China. Talks in 2015 for up to 150 aircraft collapsed due to UN arms embargoes and payment issues, as China insisted on hard currency while Iran wanted to offer oil and gas in exchange.