China Used India-Pak Tensions to Test Weapons in Real Conditions: Report

A US congressional panel's recent report has brought renewed focus to Operation Sindoor, accusing China of exploiting the brief India-Pakistan conflict in May as an opportunity to showcase its military prowess. The four-day skirmish from May 7 to 10 provided China with a stage to test and promote its latest weaponry, enhancing its military image without direct involvement.

China's involvement in the clash between India and Pakistan, which was sparked by a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, that killed 26 civilians, has gained international attention. The report highlights China's strategy of using the conflict to demonstrate the capability of its modern military systems, including the HQ-9 air-defence system, PL-15 air-to-air missiles, and J-10 fighter jets.

China's Strategic Moves

According to the report, China saw the conflict as a chance to advertise its advanced weapons while avoiding escalation. This approach aligns with China's broader defence industry ambitions and its ongoing tensions with India. The clash allowed China to gather valuable data and publicity, marking the first use of its modern weapon platforms in real combat scenarios.

The confrontation led to China reportedly offering Pakistan military sales, including 40 J-35 fifth-generation fighter jets, KJ-500 aircraft, and ballistic missile defence systems. These offers came shortly after the conflict, indicating a strategic move to strengthen military ties with Pakistan.

Propaganda and Disinformation

The report also revealed that Chinese embassies openly celebrated the performance of their military systems during the conflict. This was part of an effort to boost arms sales. Additionally, French intelligence noted that China engaged in a disinformation campaign to undermine the French Rafale fighter jets, favouring its J-35s. The campaign included fake social media accounts spreading AI and video game images of debris allegedly caused by China's weaponry.

India's response to the Pahalgam attack included launching Operation Sindoor on May 7. This operation targeted terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK). Pakistan retaliated with missiles and drones, all of which were intercepted or neutralised by Indian forces. The conflict culminated in a ceasefire on May 10, ending one of the most intense military encounters between the two countries in recent years.

The report, based on committee hearings and various media sources, provides a comprehensive overview of the incident and China's strategic objectives. It underscores the geopolitical complexities of the India-Pakistan relationship and China's role in the region's military dynamics.