Q&A · 4:18:13-4:18:43

PL-21 exports and the risk of exposing missile technology

A possible PL-21 export is weighed against the loss of control over sensitive technology.

Air-to-Air Missiles Arms Exports Chinese Air Force PL-21 Technology Security

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Question

How long might China wait before allowing foreign J-10 operators to buy the PL-21?

Short answer

No timetable is given. Export is considered possible, with technology leakage the principal reservation.

Notes

Foreign sales of the PL-21 are considered possible. The reservation is that an exported missile gives other parties more opportunities to obtain its sensitive technology. No export date or waiting period is established.