• The India-Pakistan conflict creates intelligence opportunities for China.
• China's military modernisation allows real-time monitoring of Indian military actions.
• China has increased its intelligence capabilities through extensive satellite networks.
• The presence of Chinese military in Pakistan aids in data collection and analysis.

The ongoing conflict between India and Pakistan over Kashmir presents a potentially valuable intelligence opportunity for China as it seeks data from military engagements, particularly involving the J-10 fighter jets used by Pakistan. Analysts suggest that China's military modernisation enables it to closely observe Indian activities in real-time through its border installations, naval fleets in the Indian Ocean, and satellite capabilities, enhancing its intelligence-gathering arsenal significantly, according to Reuters, Dawn, and TRT Global.

Recent reports indicated that a Chinese-made J-10 fighter jet is believed to have shot down at least two Indian military aircraft, including a French-made Rafale. This is seen as a rare moment for military analysts worldwide to evaluate the performance of air forces in active scenarios. Notably, while India has not confirmed any losses, Pakistan's officials have acknowledged their use of the J-10 fighter in combat, providing a unique case study for international military observers, as noted by Reuters, Dawn, and TRT Global.

China's strategic positioning emphasizes its surveillance capabilities, bolstered by a network of over 267 satellites, including ones dedicated to intelligence and surveillance operations. Its satellite infrastructure not only provides critical information regarding military engagements but also enhances its monitoring ability over Indian defense movements, according to findings from the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) as referenced by Reuters, Dawn, and TRT Global.

In addition to its aerial capabilities, China's naval intelligence gathering has expanded significantly. Recent tracking has shown large fleets of Chinese fishing vessels near Indian naval exercises, often performing dual roles beyond civilian activities. Analysts suggest these ships act as listening posts, contributing to the gathering of early warning signals and naval intelligence, further illustrating China's comprehensive strategy in the Indo-Pacific region. This multifaceted maritime approach has been highlighted in reports from Reuters, Dawn, and TRT Global.

Notably, China's partnership with Pakistan provides additional avenues for intelligence gathering. The presence of Chinese military advisers in Pakistan, coupled with the transfer of advanced military technologies, positions China favorably to access vital military data. Such collaborations underscore the deep-seated and strategic nature of the China-Pakistan alliance, as articulated by analysts like James Char from Singapore's S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, according to Reuters, Dawn, and TRT Global.