China’s J-10C Fighter Jet to Debut at Singapore Airshow
China’s J-10C fighter jet will make its first appearance at the Singapore Airshow as part of the People’s Liberation Army Air Force Bayi aerobatic team’s flight displays, organizers and Chinese state media say.
Seven J-10 series jets from the PLA Air Force aerobatic unit arrived at Singapore’s Changi Airport ahead of the Singapore Airshow 2026, scheduled for February 3 to February 8. Accompanied by a YY-20A tanker for in-flight refueling on the transit flight, the deployment marks the team’s return to Singapore since 2020.
New Aerobatic Routines and Long-Range Transit
Chinese reports state the Bayi Team will introduce several aerobatic routines that have not previously been shown at the Singapore Airshow. These include a six-aircraft formation barrel roll, a five-aircraft flypast and a dedicated axis rotation maneuver by one aircraft in the formation.
The Bayi pilots noted the squadron’s 2026 deployment differs from their last Singapore visit, with in-flight refueling enabling a direct long-range transit to the show. This reflects expanded operational planning and air mobility for PLA Air Force assets.
Aircraft Background and Capabilities
The J-10C, a 4.5-generation multirole fighter built by China’s Aviation Industry Corporation (AVIC), entered service with the PLA Air Force in 2018. It features an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, modern avionics and integrated systems designed for air superiority, precision engagement and networked operations.
Powered by the indigenous WS-10B turbofan and optimized for agility and situational awareness, the aircraft carries a wide range of air-to-air and air-to-surface weapons. Its design positions it for multirole combat tasks from air defense to strike missions.
International Context and Export Interest
Chinese state media link the Singapore Airshow debut to broader export promotion efforts. The J-10C’s export variant, the J-10CE, has drawn attention in recent years after reported aerial engagements involving operators outside China. While some accounts tie the type to combat outcomes, independent verification of specific combat results remains limited.
Countries in Southeast Asia and South Asia have expressed interest in modern fighter platforms, and the visibility at major airshows is part of the industry effort to highlight capabilities. Public statements from Chinese officials frame export policy as measured and aimed at friendly partners.
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The Singapore Airshow 2026 will feature nine flying displays from a mix of military and civilian participants. In addition to the PLA Bayi team with the J-10C, other international aerobatic and demonstration teams are scheduled to appear.
The event remains one of Asia’s key aerospace and defense industry gatherings, with senior military delegations, manufacturers and government officials expected to attend.
