China Sends J-10 Fighters to Egypt, Signaling Strategic Interest in African Skies

Beijing’s first joint air drills with Cairo underline China’s widening military diplomacy and its growing stake in the African continent

China has flown a high-profile fighter deployment to Egypt. On Sunday, the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) launched its first-ever joint air drills with the Egyptian Air Force, dubbed “Eagles of Civilization 2025.” The exercise is more than a military flex — it’s a geopolitical signal. And the message? Beijing’s shadow is lengthening across Africa.

The drills are happening at Wadi Abu Rish Air Base in Egypt and are set to run through mid-May. But what’s raised eyebrows isn’t just the timing — it’s the tech and tactics on display. China brought in J-10B and J-10C fighters, a Y-20U refueling tanker, and a KJ-500 airborne early warning aircraft. Egypt, on its part, has deployed MiG-29M/M2 Fulcrums. Together, they’re conducting a series of joint operations aimed at sharpening combat capabilities and, quite clearly, boosting bilateral defense ties.

Military Drill, Diplomatic Statement

This isn’t just about flight maneuvers. It’s a carefully crafted demonstration of soft power backed by hard steel.

For China, these types of joint drills have become a crucial tool in expanding its influence abroad. And Egypt is a key partner, not just geographically but symbolically. A long-time U.S. military ally, Egypt now seems more open to embracing alternatives — and Beijing is happy to oblige.

According to Chinese state broadcaster CCTV, the exercise aims to “enhance mutual trust” and “promote pragmatic cooperation.” That’s diplomatic speak, sure. But the subtext is sharper: China is working to secure long-term defense relationships in Africa.

A one-sentence paragraph here for pacing.

Cairo hasn’t commented directly on whether it’s planning to purchase Chinese J-10C fighters, but speculation is swirling.

What’s in the Sky — And Why It Matters

The aircraft China sent to Egypt are no afterthought. They reflect a calculated move to showcase capability, interoperability, and readiness for export deals.

Let’s break it down:

• J-10C Fighter Jets: These are fourth-generation, multirole jets comparable in some ways to U.S. F-16s. They’re fast, nimble, and come with AESA radar — a big leap in tracking and targeting.

• KJ-500 AWACS: Airborne radar systems that can control the battlespace and guide fighter jets.

• Y-20U Tanker: Strategic aerial refuelers extending operational range, crucial for far-from-home missions.

Egypt’s use of the MiG-29M/M2 in the drills shows it’s still balancing Russian-made gear with other partnerships. But China’s fleet is newer and more integrated — and that’s probably not lost on Cairo.

U.S. Pullback Leaves Space for Beijing

There’s a shift happening in Africa. While the U.S. once maintained a robust military presence and deep relationships with African governments, it has gradually moved resources toward other regions, especially the Indo-Pacific.

According to the Africa Center for Strategic Studies, Beijing has signed security agreements or held military exercises with over 15 African nations since 2015. The pattern’s clear: grow ties, build trust, and offer tech — all without the political conditions that often come with Western deals.

China’s model appeals to many governments seeking alternatives.

One sentence again — just to reset your attention.

It’s not hard to imagine China aiming to sell the J-10C to Egypt down the line. Maybe this exercise is the test drive.

Table: China’s Recent Military Engagements in Africa

That growing pattern of outreach isn’t random. China wants to be seen not just as a trading partner but as a security partner, too.

Cairo’s Calculus: Strategic Hedging?

Egypt is no stranger to playing both sides. It’s received billions in U.S. military aid since the late 1970s, including F-16s and Apache helicopters. But in recent years, it’s expanded its portfolio — buying Su-35s from Russia, Rafales from France, and now, potentially eyeing Chinese gear.

Washington’s frequent human rights criticisms and military aid freezes haven’t helped. And in a region where political instability is always around the corner, Cairo wants partners who show up, no strings attached.

That’s where Beijing steps in, smiling, shaking hands — and landing jets.

Egypt hasn’t confirmed any J-10 purchases yet, but the rumors haven’t gone away. In fact, they’ve intensified with the start of these drills.

Bigger Picture: Airpower, Access, and Africa’s Future

The “Eagles of Civilization 2025” exercise isn’t just symbolic. It’s functional. It lets China project power further west than ever before — and normalizes its presence in North Africa.

It also tests how well Chinese and Egyptian forces can operate together. Interoperability matters when you’re thinking about long-term arms deals or even joint security missions down the line.

And then there’s this: proximity to critical trade routes.

The Red Sea, Suez Canal, Mediterranean access — all of it runs through or near Egypt. If you’re China, securing even informal access to that airspace is a long-term win.

One-sentence paragraph again. Because this detail’s worth a pause.

This drill might just be a dress rehearsal for deeper military cooperation.