A Chinese-made PL-15E air-to-air missile was recovered on Indian soil following a large aerial battle between Indian and Pakistani air forces earlier this week. This is the first known use of any version of the PL-15 missile in combat.
The missile was discovered in Punjab’s Hoshiarpur on Friday and is believed to have been launched from a Pakistani JF-17 fighter jet. Multiple reports claimed that the missile was found in fully intact condition.
A fully intact Chinese PL-15 long-range air-to-air missile was recovered in Hoshiarpur, Punjab—clearly launched from a PAF jet, most likely a JF-17. It failed to detonate. pic.twitter.com/BME3n5blTg
— Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) May 9, 2025
The PL-15 is a long-range air-to-air missile developed by China and is widely considered one of the most advanced weapons in its category. It is designed to target modern aerial threats, including stealth aircraft, airborne early warning systems, and other high-value targets.
The Times of India noted in its report that the discovery of the PL-15 may provide insights into the missile’s design and performance. “India could gain several strategic and technological advantages. Studying such a missile would allow Indian defence scientists and engineers to analyse its internal systems – seeker, propulsion, datalink, and electronic counter-measures.”
Pakistan recently confirmed that its air force used the PL-15E missile during the recent clashes with India. Officials also reported that Chinese-made J-10C fighter jets and U.S.-made F-16s were deployed in the operation.
Pakistan claimed it shot down five Indian aircraft including three French-built Rafales, a Russian Su-30MKI, a MiG-29, and a drone. Pakistani officials presented radar logs and audio as evidence, but these have not been independently verified. Pakistan denies losing any of its own aircraft.
