Egypt has reportedly signed an agreement with China to purchase J-10C fighter jets, aiming to replace its aging fleet of F-16 Fighting Falcons.
According to various reports, the deal for the Chengdu J-10C, also known as the “Vigorous Dragon,” was signed on August 19, 2024. This acquisition would make Egypt the second international customer for the J-10C, following Pakistan.
The move follows growing speculation that Egypt is seeking alternatives to modernize its air force as the country begins to phase out its older F-16A/B aircraft. The J-10C is a multi-role fighter jet equipped with advanced air-to-air and air-to-ground weaponry. Its capabilities have been compared to the American F-16, with particular strengths in air superiority missions.
The deal comes after Cairo declined offers from both the United States and Russia to upgrade or replace its fleet. Egypt reportedly considered, but ultimately rejected, an American package for modernizing its F-16s to the F-16V variant.
Alongside its high performing F-16s, Egypt’s French-supplied Rafale fighters ordered since 2015 also boosts significant performance, most notably the Meteor air to air missiles offers serious combat capability.
Additionally, the country turned down Russian offers for MiG-29M, MiG-35 and Su-35 fighters, following negative experiences with Russian military hardware and poor performance of the MiG-29M and Su-35 aircraft in the Ukraine war.
In a recent display of military cooperation, China showcased its J-10C aircraft at the Egyptian International Air Show, marking the first time these fighters have performed in Africa.
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