The United States–China Economic and Security Review Commission has accused China of orchestrating a disinformation campaign to undermine India’s Rafale fighter jet program and influence defense markets in Asia. The report, released recently, claims that Beijing used fake social media accounts and AI-generated images to spread false information about the Rafale jets being shot down during the India-Pakistan conflict in May 2025, thereby promoting China’s J-35 fighter jet.
The findings suggest these manipulated images aimed to affect defense procurement decisions in Asia. Notably, Chinese diplomatic efforts may have led Indonesia to delay its Rafale purchases, potentially favoring Chinese military equipment in the region. Additionally, the report highlights strengthened ties between China and Pakistan, evidenced by joint military exercises and a significant defense package from China to Pakistan.
The report’s release coincided with U.S. President Donald Trump’s claims of intervening during the India-Pakistan clash, which India dismisses as exaggeration, asserting its own diplomatic actions were key to de-escalation. Overall, the Commission views China’s disinformation campaign as part of a broader strategy to erode Western defense influence in the Indo-Pacific, impacting alliances and the regional balance of power amid rising information warfare.
