Iran is exploring the possibility of buying used J-10B multirole fighter jets currently serving with the Air Force of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army, according to the Iranian newspaper Entekhab, which cited defense sources familiar with the discussions.
The J-10B is an upgraded version of the original J-10A. The aircraft family is often compared with the American F-16 and described as China’s counterpart to that fighter. Unlike the J-11, which was developed as a licensed copy of the Soviet Su-27, the J-10 is presented as China’s own design. At the same time, it uses the Russian AL-31FN turbofan engine.
The J-10B became China’s first 4++ generation fighter equipped with an active electronically scanned array radar, a helmet-mounted targeting system and an engine with thrust-vector control. Around 54 aircraft of this version are believed to have been produced.
A new export J-10CE is estimated at about $50 million per aircraft. Used J-10B fighters could be significantly cheaper, with an estimated price range of $20 million to $35 million per unit. Indonesia’s case offers a useful comparison: Jakarta is studying the purchase of 42 used J-10B jets for $1.6 billion. If aircraft, equipment and logistics are counted together, the price comes to roughly $38 million per jet.
For Iran, such a deal could be far more affordable than buying new aircraft. The difference in cost may be close to twofold.
Tehran has long been looking for ways to renew its aging combat aviation fleet. Its backbone still includes American F-14 fighters delivered before the Islamic Revolution of 1979. Iran previously considered acquiring Russian Su-35 jets, but amid the escalation with Israel and the need to strengthen its air force quickly, Chinese fighters are becoming an increasingly attractive alternative.
Neither Iran’s nor China’s defense authorities have officially confirmed the reported discussions.