[SampleMan]

When China unveiled its new, home-grown Jian-10 fighter jet in January, it was hailed in Beijing as proof that the country could now match the achievements of America and Russia in aerospace technology.

Perhaps hailed by the Chinese, but the Jian-10 appears to be a copy of an early block F-16 that the Pakis gave them, with slightly less capability.

So the Chinese would appear capable of copying thirty year old, single engine, fourth generation aircraft. As they had been producing copies of thirty year old, single engine, third generation aircraft, this should be no big surprise.

[sukhoi-30mki]

It would probably be safe to assume that it is superior to the Block 15 F-16s the Pakis have with newer air to air & air to ground weaponry.You'd probably have to rate it below the Block 50 standard,but that's cold comfort.The Taiwanese F-16s are modified Block 20 standards.

If the Europeans start selling upgrades to the Chicoms,things may look very different.There are several AESA radars & electronic warfare systems on offer from European firms which won't be purchased by European nations.

[Citizen Tom Paine]

Ex-President Clinton should also be given some credit for the ChiCom's military success, particularly in the MIRVed ICBM areas. He authorized the transfer of US missile technology to them while he was President. Lest we forget.