Daijiworld Media Network - Beijing

Beijing, May 8: China has for the first time officially acknowledged that it provided on-site technical assistance to Pakistan during last year’s four-day military conflict with India, according to reports in Chinese state media.

China’s state broadcaster CCTV aired an interview with Zhang Heng, an engineer associated with the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) Chengdu Aircraft Design and Research Institute.

The institute is involved in the development of advanced Chinese fighter aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles.

According to the report, Zhang was part of the team that provided technical support to Pakistan during the conflict last May.

The Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post quoted CCTV as saying that Pakistan’s Air Force currently operates Chinese-made Chengdu J-10 J-10CE fighter jets manufactured by an AVIC subsidiary.

Recalling the conditions during the deployment, Zhang said the support team regularly heard fighter jets taking off along with air-raid sirens.

“At the support base, we frequently heard the roar of fighter jets taking off and the constant wail of air-raid sirens. By late morning in May, the temperature was already approaching 50 degrees Celsius. It was a real ordeal for us, both mentally and physically,” he said.

Zhang said his team remained motivated by the desire to ensure the equipment performed at its “full combat potential”.

“That wasn’t just a recognition of the J10CE; it was also a testament to the deep bond we formed through working side by side, day in and day out,” he added.

The acknowledgement is being viewed as a rare public admission by China regarding direct operational support provided to Pakistan during the conflict period.