Siheyuan, Shazhu: I have both parents in this life

Chapter 444 Sharpening the Blade
After being disciplined, Chen Rui (Falcon) seemed like a different person.

His usual carefree and impulsive nature was forcibly suppressed.

He no longer engaged in lengthy discussions during breaks, but instead silently carried the flight manual and tactical materials, repeatedly practicing those basic maneuvers on the simulator, especially the precise control of the side stick micro-operations, and the sense of the flight control system's authority and boundaries under different flight conditions.

Wang Jinsong (Snow Leopard) tried to pull him aside to relax, but he shook his head and refused. "I need to get familiar with this switch first, otherwise I'll be letting down this uniform and this plane," Chen Rui said, staring at the simulator screen without turning his head.

Zhao Taihang (Mountain Eagle) and Li Zhan (Gaoyuan) observed this. In a private conversation, Zhao Taihang said, "I know Falcon too well. He has a strong spirit, but he's also impulsive. When he used to fly the J-8, he would make dangerous maneuvers because he was familiar with the aircraft, and he got criticized a lot. I need to teach him to control his temper and treat him better."

Li Zhan nodded: "It does take some time. I'm sorry to have troubled you before."

“He was normal when he was on a mission,” Zhao Taihang smiled.

"Let's go."

The instructors naturally noticed Chen Rui's changes as well.

After confirming that Chen Rui's simulator operation was almost perfectly stable and that he had passed the theoretical assessment with a high score, his flight qualification was restored after evaluation.

As Chen Rui stepped back onto the gangway, he took a deep breath, his movements becoming much more composed.

The subsequent training entered a phase that was closer to actual combat.

It's no longer a single-player or simple team-based experience; instead, it's a red-blue team battle with a tactical background.

The Blue Team was played by instructors and some senior test pilots. At the beginning, the trainees' opponents were J-7, J-8 and other aircraft.

They thought they were about to crush the enemy because they knew those aircraft models very well. Unfortunately, due to the differences in aircraft models, they were told they were the ones entering the scene, which restricted all ground support. The other side, on the other hand, introduced ground radar guidance, electronic jamming, and other means.

The trainees thought this was to let them experience the mentality of enemy pilots who rely on their advanced aircraft to intrude into other countries' borders, but would it go as they wished?

In the first system confrontation, Zhao Taihang (Mountain Eagle), as the lead aircraft of the Red Team, led a three-aircraft formation consisting of Li Zhan (High Plateau) and Chen Rui (Falcon) to strike the two Blue Team aircraft that had moved forward to intercept.

The J-10's radar was the first to detect the target at beyond visual range, and two bright spots were clearly displayed on the multi-function display.

"Maintain data link silence and proceed to attack positions according to the pre-arranged plan." Zhao Taihang issued the order, using the J-10's excellent beyond-visual-range detection capabilities and low observability to quietly occupy advantageous positions.

However, just as they were preparing to simulate the launch of a medium-range missile, the radar warning device in the cabin suddenly beeped, and the screen was filled with static.

"The Blue Army has initiated jamming!" Li Zhan (Gao Yuan) reported, as numerous false targets appeared on his radar screen.

"Switch to backup frequency and activate anti-interference mode!" Zhao Taihang calmly ordered.

The new pulse-Doppler radar equipped on the J-10 has a certain degree of frequency agility and anti-jamming capability, but its detection range and accuracy are still affected under strong electromagnetic suppression.

The previously clear tactical situation instantly became useless.

Chen Rui (Falcon) stared intently at his distorted screen, struggling to discern the real target amidst the clutter.

He recalled the key points of electronic warfare and countermeasures in the theoretical classes, as well as the similar scenarios in the simulator where he was "tortured" countless times.

He didn't panic, but quickly switched to the optical/infrared detection system (IRST) for auxiliary search, while relying on intermittent information from the data link to make a comprehensive judgment.

"Dongyao, the target seems to be making tactical maneuvers, attempting to break away!" Chen Rui made the judgment based on the limited echo characteristics and the weak IRST signal.

"We can't let them get away! Gaoyuan, you to the left, I to the right, Falcon supporting, push forward! Be careful to maintain visual contact distance!" Zhao Taihang decisively decided to abandon pure beyond-visual-range attack and use the J-10's maneuverability advantage for close combat.

Three J-10 fighter jets, like falcons pouncing on their prey, broke through the fog of electromagnetic interference and sped toward their target.

Upon entering visual range, the scene before them made the Red Team pilot's heart tighten.

The Blue Army did not have the expected two aircraft, but rather three two-aircraft formations. Six J-7Es had already set up an ambush under the cover of clouds and jamming.

These aging J-7E fighters, piloted by experienced instructors, demonstrated extremely sophisticated low-altitude, low-speed dogfighting capabilities, resembling a swarm of agile bees.

The aerial combat instantly devolved into a brutal dogfight.

The J-10's radar is limited in close-range combat, and the advantages of its helmet-mounted sight and high off-boresight angle missiles cannot be fully utilized due to rule restrictions (simulated training missiles cannot fully simulate the situation).

The J-7E, with its extremely small turning radius and fearless close-quarters tactics, frequently cuts into the inner circle of the J-10.

"I'm being held hostage! I can't get rid of them!" Li Zhan (Gao Yuan) encountered a dangerous situation, his fighter jet was being tightly pursued by two J-7E fighters.

Zhao Taihang attempted to provide support, but was intercepted by another group of Blue Army aircraft.

Li Zhan (Gaoyuan) relied on precise control and situational judgment to make a series of high-G maneuvers, barely dodging several lock-on attempts, but was unable to effectively counterattack.

In the chaos, Chen Rui (Falcon) seized a fleeting opportunity during a brief radar gap to simulate shooting down a J-7E, but was immediately "hit" by another Blue Force fighter, and the system determined that he had been damaged and withdrew from the battle.

The battle lasted less than ten minutes.

Result: The Red Team was judged to have shot down one aircraft (Chen Rui), damaged one aircraft (Li Zhan), and only Zhao Taihang (Mountain Eagle) "survived". The mission failed and the cost was heavy.

The Blue Team, on the other hand, lost three J-7E fighters.

The atmosphere at the debriefing meeting was somber.

The meeting was still chaired by that stern-faced colonel. He didn't use a large screen, but just held a tactical notebook. His voice wasn't loud, but every word struck the pilots' hearts.

"The J-10's performance is how many generations ahead of the J-7E. You all know the data. And what was the result? They used outdated aircraft, relying on simple jamming and tactical coordination, to achieve a three-for-two exchange." He glanced at the dejected pilots. "Where did the problem lie?"

"We underestimated our enemy." Zhao Taihang was the first to stand up and frankly admitted, "We thought the equipment gap was enough to crush them, and we ignored the tactics and the electromagnetic environment."

“We rely on equipment,” Li Zhan added. “When interference comes, we lose our composure and lack contingency plans and training for operating in complex electromagnetic environments.”

“The formation is disjointed,” Chen Rui said in a low voice. “After being separated, each unit is fighting its own battle.”

The colonel nodded, then shook his head: "You've hit the nail on the head, but you haven't gotten to the root of the problem. The root of the problem is that you haven't truly understood system-of-systems warfare, nor have you integrated the performance of the new equipment into the system. You think that just because you've got a better gun, you're a sharpshooter? You're far from it!"

He stepped to the front of the stage, his tone heavy: "In this exercise, the Blue Team has taught you a valuable lesson. Future air combat will be a confrontation of systems. Radar, surface-to-air missiles, electronic countermeasures, and data links are all part of the system. You are piloting the sharpest spear in the system, but even the sharpest spear will be broken if it is separated from the system and ventures deep into enemy territory alone."

"Next, the training focus will be adjusted. We will strengthen tactical drills in complex electromagnetic environments and enhance coordination with ground command posts, radar stations, and air defense units. Everyone must write a detailed debriefing report!"

After the meeting, the pilots gathered in their dormitories, their spirits low.

"It's so frustrating!" Chen Rui slammed his fist on the bed frame. "I could have fought much better."

"If you're going to get hit, stand up straight." Zhao Taihang was relatively calm. "The instructor is right, it's our problem. We need to learn from this lesson."

Li Zhan opened his notebook: "Let's review this. If we had immediately adopted a dual-machine alternating cover strategy when the interference occurred, utilizing the remaining information from the data link for sharing, instead of blindly pushing forward, would the outcome have been different?"

Several people gathered around and, using the simple dormitory tables and chairs, began a heated discussion and deduction.

The second confrontation exercise was held a week later, with a similar background.

This time, the red team was much more cautious.

Before entering the target airspace, Zhao Taihang had already confirmed the surrounding electromagnetic situation and backup communication plan with the ground command post.

When the interference came again, the Red team did not panic.

The lead and wingmen maintain communication through pre-set simple signals and intermittent data links, adopting a dispersed formation and providing mutual cover.

Li Zhan (Gaoyuan) piloted his fighter jet forward to act as a decoy and attract the attention of the Blue Army.

Zhao Taihang (Mountain Eagle) then used the terrain and cloud cover to quietly flank the enemy.

Chen Rui (Falcon) kept a close eye on the IRST and data link fusion information, and in the gaps of interference, he captured the weak thermal signal and intermittent trajectory of the Blue Army's lead aircraft.

"Hey, target location XXX, altitude XXX, turning left, opportunity!"

"Roger that! Plateau, continue the feint! Falcon, follow me!"

Like tacit hunters, the two J-10s launched their attacks simultaneously, one using conventional tactics and the other employing unconventional methods.

Zhao Taihang simulated firing a medium-range missile beyond visual range to suppress the enemy, while Chen Rui quickly locked onto the target using his helmet-mounted sight and "shot down" the Blue Army's lead aircraft, which was attempting to break free, at extremely close range.

Without a commander, the Blue Army formation became somewhat disorganized and was thus picked off one by one by the Red Army.

Final result: The Red Team, at the cost of losing one aircraft (decoy Li Zhan), shot down four Blue Team aircraft, successfully bypassed the remaining enemy aircraft, and completed the mission.

Even after the exercise ended, the pilots still didn't smile, because the operation wasn't perfect if someone had "sacrificed" themselves.

At the training briefing, the instructors announced the new combat plan with a blank expression, while a diagram of the new Blue Team's equipment was projected onto the background wall.

“Starting from the next phase, the Blue Team’s equipment will be updated.” The instructor pointed his laser pointer at the map. “They will be equipped with J-10 simulators of the same generation as ours, as well as imported Su-35 fighter jets. The Red Team’s mission remains unchanged: to intercept Blue Team attack formations attempting to break through the defense line.”

A low gasp filled the conference room.

"The Su-35? That's a formidable opponent, known as the 'ultimate flanker,' possessing super maneuverability and a powerful radar system."

Zhao Taihang (Mountain Eagle) frowned slightly, Li Zhan (Gaoyuan) subconsciously sat up straight, and Chen Rui (Falcon) licked his dry lips.

In their first confrontation with aircraft of the same generation and even more advanced models, the Red Team once again found themselves in a tough battle.

The Blue Team's J-10 simulators were comparable in performance to the Red Team's and were tactically flexible. Meanwhile, the Su-35s, with their vectoring engines and super maneuverability, repeatedly performed incredible escape maneuvers in close-range combat, putting immense psychological pressure and technical challenges on the Red Team's pilots.

The radar alarms became more frequent and piercing.

"I'm locked on! It's the Su-35's 'Snow Leopard' radar!" During a confrontation, Wang Jinsong (Snow Leopard) urgently reported in the communications. He tried to break away using high-G maneuvers, but the other side was sticking to him tightly.

"Hold on! I'm trying to jam it!" Chen Rui (Falcon) piloted his fighter jet at great risk, attempting to use the onboard electronic countermeasures system to create an opportunity for his comrades.

However, the Su-35 pilots were experienced and, with a strange "bell-shaped" maneuver, not only dodged the jamming sector but also instantly turned the tables on Chen Rui.

"Be careful in the cave!"

The system determined that Chen Rui and Wang Jinsong were both "shot down".

The atmosphere became even more somber during the debriefing session.

"The Su-35's radar detection range and anti-jamming capabilities are indeed superior to our current models," a radar expert pointed out while analyzing the data. "Especially in medium- and long-range engagements, it is easier for it to detect and lock on first."

"Its maneuverability is insane," Chen Rui couldn't help but say. "It feels like it can change direction at will in the air."

“Vectoring thrust technology does bring advantages in close-quarters combat,” the flight instructor admitted, “but it’s not invincible. It consumes a lot of energy, and its speed drops sharply after continuous super-maneuvering. The key is to avoid being dragged into its strength of close-range combat and to leverage the advantages of our system and medium-range missiles.”

A system, yet another system.

The pilots began to understand the weight of this word more deeply.

The training content has been adjusted again, strengthening the coordination between medium-range air combat tactics and electronic warfare.

They learned how to cross-link data with new phased array radar stations on the ground, how to receive a broader battlefield situation from early warning aircraft, and how to coordinate electronic silence or release combined jamming when locked on by enemy radar.

Gradually, the Red Team's casualty ratio began to recover.

They learned to use data links to share target information and conduct "A-fire-B-guide" tactics, where one fighter jet's radar is silent while receiving data guidance from another fighter jet or early warning aircraft to quietly launch a missile; they also learned to use formation coordination to create distance when encountering Su-35s and use medium-range missiles to "snipe" them, avoiding getting into dogfights.

Just as they were getting used to confronting the Su-35, the Blue Team "upgraded" again.

This time, the Blue Team was equipped with a brand-new fighter jet model – codenamed "J-16" (J-16). The trainees were told that its performance parameters simulated the F-16, their main adversary that they might encounter in the surrounding area in the future, and it was even equipped with more advanced avionics and electronic warfare systems.

The "Jianbing-16" radar has enhanced capabilities in multi-target tracking, anti-jamming, and detection of low-observable targets.

Its emergence has significantly reduced the effectiveness of some of the radar advantages and electronic countermeasures strategies that the Red Team previously relied on.

"The radar detected a very weak target signal!" Li Zhan (Gao Yuan) stared at the screen; the once clear signal had become erratic.

"The jamming effect is decreasing, and the other side is rapidly hopping frequencies!" Chen Rui (Falcon) reported, his electronic countermeasures pod seemed to be struggling.

The balance of power has tipped again.

What made the Red Team pilots even more uncomfortable was that the training script was changed again.

They transitioned from being the familiar offensive side to the defensive side.

"The Blue Team's 'Spearman 16' twin-aircraft formation, accompanied by an electronic jamming aircraft, is simulating a low-altitude penetration, attempting to attack our rear command hub. The Red Team is responsible for area air defense and must intercept them before they reach the defensive line." The mission briefing was clear and ruthless.

The change of roles brought entirely different pressures.

As attackers, they can actively choose their timing and route. As defenders, however, they must passively wait and respond to enemy attacks within limited airspace, while constantly worrying about the safety of targets behind them.

A crucial defensive combat exercise was conducted at night.

Under the pitch-black night sky, only the fluorescent lights of the instruments inside the cockpit and the scattered lights on the ground in the distance could be seen.

The Red Team's two-aircraft formation, consisting of Zhao Taihang (Mountain Eagle) and Chen Rui (Falcon), patrolled the designated airspace under the guidance of ground radar.

"Ground radar has detected two low-altitude, fast-moving targets, altitude xxx, speed xxx, bearing xxx, suspected to be 'Spearman 16'. It is determined that they are attempting to evade by using the valley terrain," came the voice from the ground command post (GCI).

"Received." Zhao Taihang responded calmly, pushed the control stick, and began to descend.

Nighttime low-altitude interception is exponentially more difficult and risky. Visibility is extremely poor, requiring complete reliance on instruments and ground guidance.

“The target signal has disappeared into the valley clutter,” GCI warned.

Zhao Taihang and Chen Rui tensed up, staring intently at the radar screen and the infrared search and track system (IRST), trying to catch the faint signal amidst the complex background noise.

Suddenly, Chen Rui's radar alarm emitted a short, sharp beep, then fell silent again.

"Intermittent radar signals have been passively detected, which may be a momentary scan by the enemy's AESA radar!" Chen Rui reported immediately.

"Remain silent and be alert for heat source signals!" Zhao Taihang ordered.

A few seconds later, with another prompt from the ground radar, Zhao Taihang finally detected a faint heat source signal at the edge of the IRST.

"Target spotted! To the left front, very close!"

Almost simultaneously, the other side also clearly discovered them.

"Whoosh—" The piercing radar lock-on alarm instantly filled the cockpit!

"I'm locked in!"

"Interfere! Avoid!"

The two J-10 fighters quickly dispersed, releasing chaff and infrared flares, instantly illuminating the night sky.

Zhao Taihang made a sharp dive turn, attempting to break free of the lock. Chen Rui, on the other hand, tried to flank the enemy and disrupt their attack.

However, the pilots of "Jianbing 16" were clearly experienced. The lead plane kept a close watch on Zhao Taihang, while the wingman skillfully blocked Chen Rui's interference route.

"Blue Team's lead aircraft is simulating a missile launch!" The system notification sounded cold.

Zhao Taihang felt immense pressure, continuously performing high-G maneuvers, the cockpit creaking. He knew that being locked on at such close range meant his chances of survival were slim.

At this critical moment, a new order came from the ground command post: "Red Fox, permission granted to use 'Longsword' (simulated surface-to-air missile units) for support. Target data has been injected. Three seconds remaining, disengage!"

Without the slightest hesitation, Zhao Taihang slammed the throttle to the boost, and the fighter jet shot upwards like an arrow.

"Three, two, one"

On the ground some distance below, the simulated anti-aircraft missile positions suddenly "launched".

The system determined that the Blue Team's lead aircraft was "shot down" by a surface-to-air missile.

The unexpected reinforcements disrupted the Blue Team's rhythm.

Chen Rui (Falcon) seized the opportunity and, taking advantage of the momentary panic of the opposing wingman, decisively "launched" a missile and "shot it down".

The mission was accomplished, but on the return journey, Zhao Taihang and Chen Rui remained silent.

They won, but only by relying on ground-based air defense capabilities.

Without that crucial support, the outcome could have been completely different.

"How do you feel?" In the debriefing room, the instructor looked at the two pilots who were soaked in sweat.

Zhao Taihang said slowly, "Defense is more difficult than offense. The pressure is greater, and you are more passive."

Chen Rui added, "Moreover, we can't do without our brothers on the ground. Without them, we would have failed this time."

The instructor nodded: "This is the system. The offensive spear is powerful, and the defensive shield must be strong. Fighter jets are flexible daggers, radar is the eyes, and surface-to-air missiles are the heavy shields guarding the gate. In the future of air defense, no one can fight alone. What you need to learn is not only how to fly the aircraft well, but also how to find your place in the huge combat system and play the most crucial role."

The next training sessions will place greater emphasis on comprehensive collaboration.

Pilots began regular joint training exercises with surface-to-air missile units and radar units.

They learned how to designate targets for missile units, how to evade friendly air defense fire, and how to maintain effective communication with ground units in complex electromagnetic environments.

They piloted J-10 fighter jets, sometimes acting as the offensive "Blue Army" to test the vulnerabilities of the air defense system, and sometimes as the defensive "Red Army" to build a defensive line together with ground troops.

From competition on a single platform to system-wide confrontation, the vision and thinking of these top pilots have been continuously broadened and deepened through repeated failures, reflections, and successes. The warplanes they fly are no longer isolated and helpless blades, but have gradually become an organic, active, and crucial node in the national aerospace defense system.

However, the trainees had another thought in mind: why not give them the 'Elite 16'?
During a training break in the canteen, Chen Rui (Falcon) shoveled a few mouthfuls of food into his mouth, finally unable to resist nudging Zhao Taihang (Mountain Eagle) next to him with his elbow and whispering, "Mountain Eagle, who do you think will get the 'Elite 16' from the Blue Army? We train with these 'strong enemies' every day, but we're still flying the number 10. Are we really that bad at flying?

He spoke softly, but the people around him could hear him.

Li Zhan (Gaoyuan), Wang Jinsong (Xuebao), and others also stopped eating, glancing at Zhao Taihang with seemingly casual glances, clearly having the same question in mind.

Before Zhao Taihang could speak, a cold, stern voice rang out behind them.

"What, you've only been flying the No. 10 machine for a few days and you're already looking down on your own stuff?"

Everyone jolted awake, immediately put down their bowls and chopsticks, and stood up abruptly.

The cold-faced colonel had appeared behind them at some point, his face expressionless, but his eyes swept over them like searchlights.

"Instructor!" the group called out in unison.

The colonel didn't let them sit down. He pulled over an empty chair, sat down imposingly, and looked at Chen Rui: "Falcon, did you start this? You think aircraft number sixteen is better and want to fly that one?"

Chen Rui was a little embarrassed, but under the colonel's gaze, he still forced himself to say, "Reporting, Instructor! It's not that I look down on the No. 10 machine, the No. 10 machine is very good! It's just that I've seen that the Blue Army's equipment is being updated quickly, and I was thinking that if I could experience more models, I would be able to better understand the enemy and myself."

After listening, the colonel didn't directly refute him, but instead looked at the others: "What about you? Do you all think the same way?"

Li Zhan (Gao Yuan) pondered for a moment before speaking, "Instructor, we just want to know the reason. After all, the No. 16 machine is much more advanced than the Western one, and if there are enough of them, their combat power will be very strong."

The colonel nodded, gesturing for everyone to sit down.

He surveyed these elite pilots he had personally honed, and said calmly, "You are the cream of the crop, selected from the very best of the Air Force. Where should we put our best pilots?" He paused, his gaze sharpening, "On the most promising frontiers, on the very edge of the blade that best represents the future!"

"The No. 10 aircraft, from its aerodynamic layout to its flight control system, and its potential for future upgrades, follows our own path. This path may be difficult at first, and there may be various problems, but its roots are our own! Its lineage and its genes determine its future growth potential. The next generation, and the generation after that, will inevitably continue to deepen and expand along this route. Your current flight, familiarization, and understanding of it is not only to master the current aircraft, but also to pave the way for the future! Every sortie you accumulate, every problem you encounter, and every difficulty you solve is laying the foundation for more advanced models in the future, and it is generating vitality for the entire independent aviation system!"

He then changed the subject: "Unit 16 is a modified version, referencing foreign designs, and has its own specific historical background and role. It is important, able to quickly fill certain gaps and form much-needed combat capabilities. However," he emphasized, "its technological roadmap and its upgrade ceiling were largely determined when the project was initiated. It is a meticulously copied 'sword' that can be quickly delivered and used; it is sharp and easy to use, but in the future system, it is not a link in the system, and even, if necessary, it can be a link that can be discarded."

"Consumables?" Wang Jinsong (Snow Leopard) repeated subconsciously.

The colonel glanced at him, his tone calm yet tinged with the cold reality: "In modern warfare, especially under high-intensity confrontation, equipment losses are inevitable. We need main equipment that can step in at critical moments and that we can afford to lose. Aircraft No. 16, and future models that may develop along a similar path, play this role. They are important; they are an indispensable part of the Great Wall of Steel. But you," his gaze swept over each pilot again, "you are the seeds, the sparks, the ones who will master the sharpest, most core 'ace' of our future development, the one representing the highest achievement of our independent development! Investing your limited energy and time in platforms that will better determine the future of air combat is the optimal choice."

The cafeteria was quiet.

The longing on the pilots' faces disappeared, replaced by a deeper sense of reflection and responsibility.

Chen Rui (Falcon) lowered his head, feeling a little ashamed of his previous little thoughts.

Zhao Taihang (Mountain Eagle) stood ramrod straight, his gaze even more resolute.

Li Zhan (Gaoyuan) silently pondered the weight of the words "seed" and "spark".

The colonel stood up, patted Zhao Taihang on the shoulder, and glanced at everyone: "Don't be like those other planes that seem better. Master the flight of this No. 10 aircraft under your command, fly it thoroughly, and unleash all its potential! That's what you should be doing right now. The future skies await your defense, with our own wings."

After saying that, he turned and left the cafeteria.

The remaining pilots remained silent for a long time, each digesting the immense amount of information and heavy expectations contained in their instructor's words.

The food on the table gradually cooled, but the fire of patriotism burning brighter in everyone's hearts.

From that day on, there were significantly fewer complaints and noises during training.

Pilots are now more focused on exploring every tactical detail of the J-10 and studying how to maximize its performance with system support.

They knew that they were not just piloting a fighter jet, but also carrying the future and hope of a nation's aviation industry's independent innovation.

The months-long "New Equipment Acceptance Training" is nearing its end.

The graduation assessment concluded in a tense and serious atmosphere, with all trainees submitting excellent results.

They not only mastered the piloting skills of the J-10, but also gained a deep understanding of the essence of system warfare through repeated red-blue confrontations.

The graduation ceremony was simple yet solemn.

There were no flowers or applause, only the solemn gazes of the base's leaders and the instructor team.

The leader stood at the front of the line, holding a document in his hand.

"Comrades, the training is now over. You have proven with your sweat and hard work that you deserve the title of 'elite'." The commander's voice was loud and clear. "After deliberation by higher authorities, the allocation plan for the first batch of J-10 fighter jets is as follows."

The queue fell silent instantly, and everyone held their breath.

The list began to be read aloud. One name after another was read out, corresponding to the units they were about to be assigned to—an elite "Falcon" brigade in the Southeast Theater Command, a forward-deployed "Sharp Sword" brigade in the Southwest Theater Command, and a "Thunder" brigade in the Northern Theater Command responsible for key area air defense.

Zhao Taihang (Mountain Eagle) heard his name called and was assigned to the "Eagle Falcon" Brigade in the Southeast Theater Command.

His expression was calm, his eyes resolute; he was not surprised by the result.

Li Zhan (Gao Yuan) was assigned to the "Sharp Sword" Brigade of the Southwest Theater Command. He nodded slightly, as the complex air situation there required pilots with experience in low-altitude, low-speed interception.

Chen Rui (the falcon) pricked up his ears, waiting nervously.

When he heard that he had also been assigned to the "Falcon" brigade and would be in the same unit as his old partner Zhao Taihang, the corners of his mouth couldn't help but twitch upwards, but he quickly regained his seriousness.

Wang Jinsong (Snow Leopard) was also assigned to the Southwest Theater Command, where he was in the same unit as his old partner Li Zhan, and he was very happy.

The list was short and was read out quickly.

Some breathed a sigh of relief, their faces beaming with smiles of relief; others straightened their backs, their eyes sparkling with anticipation for their new posts.

However, nearly ten pilots never heard their names called.

They stood there, their expectations gradually freezing, eventually turning into an undisguised sense of loss and confusion.

Among them are team members who have performed equally well in training and achieved outstanding results in various aspects.

The base commander closed the list, his gaze sweeping over the trainees whose names had not been called; their faces were filled with resentment.

“Comrades who were not assigned to the new equipment units,” the commander said slowly, his voice steady, “it doesn’t mean you are not good enough. On the contrary, you are also elites who have been selected and assessed at every level.”

He paused for a moment, giving the young people time to process their emotions.

"The formation of combat capability for the new equipment requires a powerful 'sharpening stone.' Headquarters has decided to establish a dedicated 'Blue Force Simulation Combat Unit' based on the original training brigade, which will be stationed at this base. Your mission is to stay here and, as the most professional 'enemy,' continue to fly the J-10 and conduct combat exercises with other units that come to replace their equipment, honing their tactics and helping them grow as quickly as possible."

The news was like a stone thrown into a calm lake, causing a slight commotion among the unassigned trainees.

Stay? Serving as a sparring partner? Flying a J-10, but not to fight on the front lines?
A profound sense of disparity enveloped them.

They are giving their all to fly the most advanced fighter jets and defend their country's airspace, not to stay in the rear and become targets for others.

A straightforward pilot from the Northwest Theater Command couldn't help but step forward, his voice slightly hoarse: "Reporting, sir! We...we want to go back to our original units, even if it's just flying J-8s! We want to fight on the front lines!"

His words expressed the sentiments of many trainees who remained behind.

I'd rather go back to flying the old J-8 fighter jets; at least that's a combat role.

The leader looked at him, not angry, but with understanding in his eyes.

"I understand your feelings," the commander said solemnly. "But comrades, have you thought about this? A powerful air force not only needs a sharp spear, but also a strong shield, and even more importantly, it needs a 'whetstone' to hone both the spear and the shield!"

"You're staying here to use the new thinking and tactics you've learned over the past few months to challenge and unleash the potential of even more pilots! You'll be facing elites from all units across the military. The harder you push them, the faster they'll grow! On the future battlefield, they'll bleed less and complete their missions better! Isn't this another form of war? Another form of combat?"

"Moreover," the commander changed the subject, "staying in the Blue Army unit doesn't mean being away from actual combat. You will be equipped with the same type of fighter jets as the front-line troops, and may even have priority access to some of the latest tactical verification modules. Your understanding of the equipment and your knowledge of the system must be deeper and more advanced than that of the front-line pilots! Because your 'enemy' will force you to constantly think and constantly break through."

His gaze swept across the faces of each trainee who remained: "This is also a battlefield, a battlefield without gunfire, yet equally crucial. Staying requires even greater courage and dedication. Tell me, do you have the confidence to serve as this 'whetstone'? Do you have the determination to contribute your unique strength to enhancing the combat effectiveness of the entire army?"

The queue was completely silent.

The upright pilot from the Northwest lowered his head, clenched his fists tightly, and his knuckles turned white.

The other trainees who stayed behind also had complicated expressions, and their inner struggles were obvious.

Zhao Taihang, Li Zhan, and others looked at their comrades-in-arms with equally heavy hearts.

They could understand the disappointment, but they also vaguely sensed the heavy responsibility in their leader's words.

A moment later, the pilot from the Northwest suddenly raised his head, his eyes slightly red, but his gaze had hardened. He roared, "Yes! Mission accomplished!"

As if a fuse had been lit, the other trainees who remained also raised their heads, suppressing their emotions, their voices uneven but full of strength: "Yes!"

"Guaranteed to complete the mission!"

The sound echoed over the airport, carrying not only resentment but also a resolute determination born from recognizing one's mission.

The graduation ceremony ended in a complicated atmosphere.

The trainees on the assignment list began packing their bags, preparing to head to their new posts.

They embraced their comrades who remained behind, wished each other well, and promised to meet again on the "battlefield" in the future.

Zhao Taihang patted a classmate on the shoulder: "It's good that you stay. It'll be good for you to toughen up those newbies."

The other person grinned, but the smile was somewhat forced: "Don't worry, Mountain Eagle, I guarantee we'll make them cry for their parents. Don't let us down on the front lines either."

Li Zhan and Wang Jinsong also bid farewell to their familiar comrades who stayed behind, everything was understood without words.

Soon after, transport planes took off one after another from the runway, carrying Zhao Taihang, Li Zhan, and others to front-line troops all over the country.

The base suddenly became much emptier.

The trainees, led by the pilot from the Northwest, stood by the empty tarmac, watching the departing aircraft, motionless for a long time.

The wind blows, carrying the dry scent unique to the Gobi Desert.

"Let's go." The Northwest pilot turned around, his face no longer revealing much emotion. "From today onwards, we're the professional 'bad guys.' We need to think about how to beat those 'Red Army' bastards even harder."

He led the way to the hangar, where rows of J-10 fighters still waited quietly for their pilots.

The other trainees who stayed behind looked at each other and silently followed.

What they didn't know was that Colonel Lengmian made a phone call to Director Song immediately after the graduation ceremony.

"Old Song, do you really not have any more J-10s left?"

"Apart from the prototype, that's all."

"Sigh, seeing the disappointed faces of those trainees just now, it broke my heart!" He had given the order, but seeing the disappointment in the eyes of those equally excellent pilots who had to stay behind, he felt terrible.

"Ah, what's going on? It's just graduation, isn't it?" Factory Director Song exclaimed. He felt the pressure on the front lines and the urgency of the troops changing their uniforms. But the iron-willed man in front of him made his heart ache, showing how serious the matter was.

"I forced the trainees who weren't assigned to the J-10 combat zone to stay at the base."

"Are you preparing to deploy the J-16?"

"No, it's still the J-10, the training partner."

"This"

"I'm sorry to have wronged these lads." The colonel's voice was a little hoarse.

“Old buddy, you can’t say that.” Director Song’s tone became serious. “You know better than I do. Without a strong Blue Army, how can there be a powerful Red Army? Keeping them here is a sign of trust, but also a heavy responsibility. The role they play will be no less important than that on the front lines.”

“I understand the big picture better than you do,” the colonel sighed. “I just wanted to talk to someone. Since you don’t have any new planes over there, there’s nothing to talk about. I won’t keep you busy. I’ll take care of things here.”

"Hey, you... beep beep beep... Old Ren!" Factory Director Song complained.

After hanging up the phone, the colonel walked to the window and looked at the empty airport outside.

In the distance, the row of J-10s assigned to the Blue Army detachment gleamed coldly in the setting sun.

A few days later, the Blue Team's simulated combat unit was officially established.

There was no grand ceremony; it was simply a change of armbands and internal code names based on the original training brigade.

All the pilots who remained were reorganized, and the straightforward Northwest pilot, named Gao Jun, was appointed as the squad leader.

The atmosphere was somewhat somber as it was the first time the team had assembled as the Blue Team.

Gao Jun stood at the front of the group, looking at his former rivals and now subordinates. He took a deep breath and broke the silence: "You all know what we do now, right?"

No one answered.

Gao Jun didn't care and continued, "Sparring partners, whetstones, professional villains. What you call them doesn't matter. From today onwards, we have only one mission—to use every means possible to beat every 'Red Army' soldier who comes here to change uniforms to death!"

His gaze swept over the crowd, and his tone grew increasingly serious: "The harder we beat them, the greater their chances of surviving on the front lines! We're staying here not because we can't fly the new planes, but quite the opposite, because we fly well enough that we were chosen to be the benchmark, the touchstone!"

"I know some of you are feeling resentful, thinking that staying in this godforsaken place is not as glorious as the front lines." Gao Jun's voice rose a few decibels. "Then let me tell you, the front lines are fighting open battles, while we're fighting hidden arrows here! We need to know their planes better than the Red Army, be more proficient in their tactics, and be more familiar with every aspect of their system! We need to give them a rehearsal here of all the difficulties and dangers they might encounter, or even those they haven't even considered!"

He paused, observing the changes in the team members' eyes, and continued, "From now on, there will be no fixed script. We are the toughest nut to crack, the most cunning enemy. We have been given a lot of authority. As long as it improves the Red Army's combat effectiveness, we can innovate our tactics and use any means (within the rules) as we please!"

"Cheer up, everyone!" Gao Jun shouted finally. "Don't let those guys on the front lines look down on us 'those who stayed behind'! Let them know that if they want to graduate from us, they'll be in for a world of hurt!"

"Yes!" A unified response finally erupted from the queue. Although it still carried some complex emotions, the resentment and disappointment were clearly replaced by a new, fierce sense of responsibility.

The training then proceeded in a completely new mode.

The Blue Team no longer passively plays the pre-set enemy role, but begins to actively study the tactics and equipment performance of potential opponents, and combines their own understanding of the J-10 and system warfare to design various tricky and demanding confrontation scenarios.

Taking advantage of the relatively relaxed environment of the base, they boldly experimented with new electronic countermeasures combinations, explored ultra-low-altitude penetration routes in complex terrain, and even simulated the psychology and decision-making patterns of enemy pilots under specific circumstances.

Gao Jun, along with several key personnel, spent the entire night studying foreign military exercise data and limited publicly available intelligence, attempting to reconstruct the most authentic image of the "powerful enemy."

The intensity and quality of the confrontation increased dramatically.

The first batch of pilots from a certain unit who came for equipment conversion training ran into a brick wall as soon as they arrived.

They were initially confident, believing that playing on their home turf with new equipment would make defeating the Blues a piece of cake.

In the very first engagement, the Blue Team used electromagnetic silence and terrain cover to launch a brilliant ambush. The Red Team was unable to fully pinpoint the Blue Team's location until they were "shot down."

In the debriefing room, the Red Army commander who had led the training team looked ashen-faced. His pilots, on the other hand, were dejected and somewhat incredulous.

As the commander of the Blue Army, Gao Jun recounted the battle process with a blank expression, pointing out many loopholes in the Red Army's early warning, information sharing, and tactical coordination. His words were sharp and merciless.

"If this were real combat, you would have been completely wiped out," he concluded, his voice cold and hard.

The Red Team commander opened his mouth, wanting to refute, but found himself speechless. Facts speak louder than words.

Over the next few days, the Red Force was tormented by the Blue Force's endless stream of new tactics. Nighttime ultra-low-altitude infiltration, multi-directional feint attacks, mixed attacks on real and false targets... The Blue Force took the performance and system support of the J-10 to a new level, and some of their tactics even approached or exceeded the safety boundaries of the training syllabus, forcing the instructors to call a halt several times to reassess the risks.

But the effect is obvious.

Initially caught off guard and overwhelmed, the Red Force was forced to change its mindset, placing greater emphasis on reconnaissance, intelligence fusion, and tactical deception, resulting in increasingly seamless teamwork. Although they still suffered more losses than victories, each post-battle analysis became extremely valuable.

As Gao Jun was leaving after the training, the Red Team commander, whose face had turned ashen, approached him and shook his hand firmly: "Captain Gao, you 'bad guys' truly live up to your reputation! I've benefited immensely from this experience! Thank you!"

Gao Jun simply nodded, his face remaining expressionless. But watching the other person's increasingly composed and determined back as they left, he turned to his team members and said, "See? This is our value. Next batch, let's add some new ingredients to their mix."

The reputation of the Blue Team gradually spread among the troops that came for rotational training.

"Those professional 'Japanese devils' at the base" and "King Yama" became their nicknames.

The pilots were both afraid of being drawn into a competition against them and knew that they would gain a great deal from their training.

Time slipped away with each takeoff and landing, each confrontation.

Life at the base was monotonous yet fulfilling.

The members of the Blue Team gradually got used to this unique role.

They still yearn for the blue sky and for real combat posts, but that sense of loss has transformed into a deeper commitment.

They knew that the control stick in their hands was also related to the life and death of their comrades on the front lines and the country's air defense.

Occasionally, they would hear news from their old units and comrades-in-arms.

Zhao Taihang and Li Zhan quickly rose to become key personnel in frontline units in the southeast and southwest, piloting J-10 fighter jets to carry out numerous successful emergency takeoffs, reconnaissance, and expulsion missions.

Upon hearing this news, Gao Jun and his teammates would quietly gather together, pour water as if it were wine, and rejoice for their comrade from afar.

However, in the second day's training scrimmage, the Blues' attacks are often more aggressive and difficult to deal with.

(End of this chapter)