China’sdomestically produced WS-10 turbofan has become pivotal to its modern air power

On the 20th anniversary of China’s first domestically built high‑thrust turbofan engine for fighter jets, the WS‑10 (Woshan‑10) continues its crucial role in the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).

Originally designated Taihang, the WS‑10 turbofan takes its name from the iconic Chinese mountain range.

The Taihang engine family underpins China’s primary combat aircraft, including the fourth‑generation J‑10C, J‑11B, J‑16, and the navy’s carrier‑based J‑15, and also powers variants of the fifth‑generation J‑20 stealth fighter.

Moreover, the WS‑10 powers export models such as the J‑10CE.

This milestone marks a historic achievement for China’s aviation sector, showcasing self‑sufficiency and enabling a gradual reduction of reliance on Russian engine imports for its frontline fighters.

Prior to the Taihang engine’s maturation, China’s modern fighters — including the J‑11, J‑16, and early J‑20 — relied entirely on Russia’s AL‑31 production and export licensing, creating a critical supply‑chain vulnerability.

With the WS‑10 now mature, China can produce a wide range of advanced fourth‑ and fifth‑generation combat aircraft at scale without constraints.

Source link