THIS ‘friend’ of India to buy J-10C fighter jet from China, to become first country in world to…

Egypt seems to be setting a new example in global military strategy. The country already flies advanced fighter jets from multiple nations  including the American F-16, Russian MiG-29, and French Rafale. Now, it’s likely to soon add China’s J-10C fighter jet to its air force. If this happens, Egypt will become the only country in the world to operate modern fighter aircraft from four different nations.

In September 2024, the J-10C was showcased at an international air show held in Egypt. Then, in April 2025, during a joint air exercise called Eagles of Civilisation, footage emerged showing an Egyptian pilot inside a J-10C cockpit. These signs suggest Egypt is seriously considering the Chinese-made 4.5-generation fighter jet.

While China’s defense ministry dismissed reports in February 2025 about Egypt buying the J-10C, calling them “fake,” many experts believe the recent developments point toward a possible deal in the near future.

South Korea’s FA-50 or China’s J-10C

While Egypt has shown interest in South Korea’s FA-50 light combat aircraft, the chances of it opting for the Chinese J-10C currently appear stronger. The FA-50 is more budget-friendly and comes with stealth features, making it an attractive choice for developing nations. However, the J-10C boasts superior air-to-air combat abilities, an advanced AESA radar, and has already proven itself in service with Pakistan — making it a more compelling option for Egypt.

How could the J-10C shift Egypt’s air power?

If Egypt goes ahead with the J-10C purchase, it will become the second country after Pakistan to operate this advanced Chinese fighter jet. The J-10C represents the cutting edge of China’s modern military tech, with key features like the PL-15 long-range missile system, digital avionics, and precision strike capabilities. Acquiring these jets could significantly boost Egypt’s strategic air power and give it more flexibility in regional security.

World’s most diverse fighter fleet?

Currently, Egypt’s air force already operates more than 200 American F-16s, over 30 Russian MiG-29s, and around 24 French Rafales. If J-10Cs from China are added to the mix, Egypt will have one of the most diverse fighter jet fleets in the world.

Defense analysts suggest that such a mix of aircraft from different geopolitical sources strengthens Egypt’s diplomatic flexibility. It also helps the country avoid over-reliance on any single nation for defense support, preserving its strategic independence.

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