CAIRO: Egypt has reportedly purchased Chinese J-10C fighter jets, indicating Beijing’s increasing influence in the Middle East and regional powers’ efforts to diversify their military procurement away from reliance on the United States.
According to Bulgarian defense news agency Bulgarian Military, Egypt placed its initial order for the J-10C “Vigorous Dragon” on August 19.
This move makes Egypt the second country, following Pakistan, to acquire the J-10C, a versatile 4.5-generation multirole fighter known for its advanced combat capabilities at a competitive price. The J-10C is equipped for both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions and has been compared to the American F-16 in terms of air superiority.
Military Watch Magazine reported that Egypt’s decision to acquire the J-10C is part of a broader strategy to modernize its air force as it phases out older F-16 aircraft.
The country has declined offers from the US and Russia for upgrading or replacing its fleet, including a US proposal to modernize its F-16s to the F-16V variant and supply new F-15 jets. Similarly, an offer from Russia for MiG-29 fighters was rejected due to previous unsatisfactory experiences, including with the MiG-29M in 2015.
A significant factor driving Egypt toward China is frustration with US restrictions on advanced weaponry. Despite being a major operator of F-16s, Egypt’s fleet suffers from outdated technology and a lack of beyond-visual-range (BVR) missiles.
US foreign influence has historically delayed or restricted the delivery of advanced upgrades, often due to human rights concerns and regional politics.
Experts suggest that these restrictions have prompted Egypt to seek more independent defense options, with Chinese military equipment offering fewer limitations and allowing for quicker, more flexible upgrades. In a sign of strengthening military ties, Egyptian Air Force Commander Lieutenant General Mahmoud Fuad Abdel Gawad recently met with Chinese counterpart General Chang Dingqiu in Beijing to discuss the transfer of J-10C and J-31 fighter jets.
