Iran in Talks with China for J-10C Jets Following Collapse of Russian Agreement

Iran in Talks with China for J-10C Fighter Jets After Russian Deal Collapses.

Iran is reportedly in negotiations with China to purchase J-10C “Vigorous Dragon” fighter jets, following the failure of a previous deal with Russia to bolster its air force. The discussions come as Tehran seeks to modernize its outdated fleet, particularly in the wake of recent hostilities with Israel.

According to Russian defense-focused Telegram channels, the talks occurred during a visit by Iranian Defence Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh to China. The focus was on acquiring the J-10CE, an advanced 4++ generation jet that has shown strong performance in the Pakistan Air Force.

Iran’s renewed interest in the Chinese jets follows the collapse of its 2023 agreement with Russia to procure 50 Su-35 fighters. Only four aircraft were delivered before the deal was suspended—reportedly due to the complications stemming from Russia’s war in Ukraine.

The J-10C, often described as a cost-effective alternative to Western jets like the F-16V and Sweden’s Gripen E, is a single-engine, multirole aircraft. Reports estimate the base unit price at $60 million, rising to around $90 million with weapons systems, training, and support included.

This is not the first time Iran has eyed the J-10C. Similar talks in 2015 stalled due to UN arms embargoes and payment disagreements—China insisted on hard currency, while Iran offered oil and gas as barter. Though the embargo expired in 2020, payment issues reportedly continued to block progress.

G7 Calls for Return to Iran Nuclear Talks
Meanwhile, foreign ministers of the G7 nations on Monday called for renewed negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program. In a joint statement, they welcomed the recent ceasefire between Iran and Israel and urged diplomatic efforts to resume.

“We call for the resumption of negotiations resulting in a comprehensive, verifiable, and durable agreement that addresses Iran’s nuclear program,” the statement said.

Iran insists its nuclear efforts are peaceful, while Israel and its Western allies remain wary of Tehran’s enrichment activities and potential weapons capabilities. Since April, Iran and the United States have been engaged in indirect talks aimed at reviving diplomacy on the issue.