A Ukrainian defence publication has reported that the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) relied on the onboard radar systems of its J-10CE fighter jets to track and engage Indian aircraft, including Rafale fighters, during the aerial confrontation in May 2025.
According to Defense Express, the assessment is based on comments by Ben De, a developer involved in the J-10CE’s radar system, during an interview with China’s state broadcaster CCTV.
The report said the remarks challenge earlier assessments by military analysts, who had argued that the PAF’s operational success depended on the integrated use of ZDK-03 Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft, J-10CE fighters and PL-15 long-range air-to-air missiles.
Citing the interview, Defense Express reported that the Pakistan Air Force used the KLJ-7A radar installed on the J-10CE to detect and engage Indian aircraft without direct targeting support from AEW&C platforms.
The report has not been independently verified, and neither the Pakistan Air Force nor Indian authorities have publicly commented on the claims.