Egypt is preparing to set a new example in the world's military strategies. While on one hand this country is already operating American F-16, Russian MiG-29 and French Rafale fighter jets. At the same time, now it can soon include Chinese J-10C fighter jets in its air fleet. This move can make egypt the first and only country in the world to have state-of-the-art fighter aircraft from four different countries.
The display of the J-10C fighter jet at the international air Show held in egypt in september 2024 and then the footage of an Egyptian pilot sitting in the J-10C during a joint air exercise called Eagles of Civilization in april 2025—all this has strengthened the speculation that egypt is now leaning towards this modern 4.5th generation fighter jet of China. Although in february 2025 the Chinese Defense Ministry had termed reports of Egypt's purchase of the J-10C as "fake", experts believe that current events indicate that the deal is not far away.
South Korea's FA-50 or China's J-10C
While egypt is showing interest in South Korea's fighter jet FA-50, the J-10C's prospects seem stronger at the moment. The FA-50 is low-priced and equipped with stealth features, making it a budget-friendly option for developing countries. However, the J-10C's air-to-air combat capability, active electronic scanning radar (AESA) and its success in use in pakistan have made it a more attractive option for Egypt.
How will Egypt's strategic position change with the J-10C?
If egypt buys the Chinese J-10C, it will be the second country in the world after pakistan to operate this aircraft. This will bring a strategic balance to the Egyptian air Force as the J-10C represents China's modern combat system, including the PL-15 long-range missile, wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW'>digital avionics, and precision strike capability.
World's most diverse fighter jet unit?
The Egyptian air Force currently has more than 200 F-16s, which were purchased from the US. More than 30 MiG-29s were acquired from Russia. More than 24 Rafales were purchased from France and now possibly soon the Chinese J-10Cs will also be with the Egyptian air Force. All this together makes egypt one of the most diverse fighter jet operating air forces in the world. Defense experts believe that this mixed fighter fleet also helps egypt maintain its diplomatic independence and political balance.
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