Egypt is considering purchasing Chinese J-10C and J-31 fighter jets as part of its fleet modernization efforts, according to several defense sites.
The decision, first reported by the Army Recognition, adds China as a major secondary supplier alongside Egypt's existing ties with Russia and the U.S.
The J-10C is recognized for its advanced features and cost-effectiveness, while the stealth capabilities of the J-31 are intended to counter Israel’s F-35s.
This move comes as Egypt aims to diversify its military resources in response to sanctions on Russia and the strong U.S.-Israel alliance.
Recently, Egyptian and Chinese officials have engaged in discussions that underscore Egypt's interest in acquiring advanced fighter jets.
Lieutenant General Mahmoud Fouad Abdel Gawad, Commander of the Egyptian Air Force, met with General Chang Dingqiu, his Chinese counterpart, in Beijing to explore the potential purchase of these sophisticated aircraft.
Egypt has a track record of procuring Chinese military hardware, such as Xi’an H-6 bombers and J-6 fighters, and has exhibited growing interest in advanced fighter jets since late 2022.
The Chengdu J-10C, a fourth-generation fighter manufactured by Chengdu Aircraft Industry Corporation (CAC), is equipped with advanced electronic warfare systems and an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar.
It supports versatile combat roles with capabilities such as targeting pods, laser-guided bombs, and air-to-air missiles.
Introduced into service with the Chinese Air Force in Dec. 2017, it is also utilized by Pakistan.
Egypt is considering acquiring around twelve units of the J-10C, drawn by its comparatively lower cost compared to Western and Russian fighter aircraft.
The Shenyang J-31, or FC-31, is a fifth-generation stealth fighter developed by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation.
First flown in 2012, it is designed for missions including close-air support, aerial bombing, and interdiction.
Noteworthy for its stealth features, the J-31 includes an internal weapons bay and a diverter-less supersonic inlet design that enhances its ability to evade radar detection.
Modern avionics such as an AESA radar, IRST systems, and an electro-optical targeting system contribute to its advanced capabilities.
The J-31 is capable of being armed with PL-10 short-range missiles and PL-12 medium-range air-to-air missiles.
It can carry up to 8 deep-penetration bombs weighing 500 kg each, along with 30 smaller bombs.
The aircraft features six external hardpoints in addition to an internal weapons bay.
Propelled by two Klimov RD-33 engines, it achieves speeds of 2,200 km/h (Mach 1.8) and has a range of 4,000 km.
