In a first, Rafales take on China's J-16 fighters; why India is watching closely
Chinese J-16 fighter jets engaged in simulated combat against Egyptian Rafale fighters during a joint exercise in Egypt. This event provides the Chinese military with rare data on the performance of Western-designed aircraft used by the Indian Air Force.
Why it matters
The exercise offers China a strategic advantage in understanding the capabilities of a key fighter jet used by its regional rival, India, potentially influencing future air combat tactics.
China’s J-16 fighter jets have gone head-to-head with Rafale fighters in simulated air combat in a historic first that gives the PLA Air Force a rare opportunity to train directly against the same fighter type operated by the Indian Air Force.The unprecedented encounter took place during the China-Egypt Eagles of Civilization 2026 joint air exercise in Egypt, where Chinese J-16s and Egyptian Rafales engaged in simulated one-on-one air-combat scenarios.According to the CCTV News military channel, the opening day of the exercise focused on one-on-one engagements involving different aircraft types.
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