Foreign media reported that China is "pitching" the J-10CE to Colombia, its rival of Venezuela. What's going on? According to reports by the Bulgarian Military Network, China has proposed selling two squadrons of Chengdu J-10CE multirole fighters to Colombia. This news has drawn significant attention from global defense observers. Not only does this mark China's ambitious layout in the Latin American defense market, but it may also reshape the geopolitical landscape of South America. The proposal was made during Colombian President Gustavo Petro's visit to Beijing and his meeting with Chinese leaders. [Image: https://p3-sign.toutiaoimg.com/tos-cn-i-axegupay5k/05364d8312d2472e8c8bc29f5e8d5d81~tplv-tt-origin-web:gif.jpeg?_iz=58558&from=article.pc_detail&lk3s=953192f4&x-expires=1748345638&x-signature=yO5VTQ4M%2F9rAWRxLQhGnV7zfyvg%3D] The Colombian Air Force is facing an urgent problem of aging fighter jets. Its mainstay, the Israel-made Lion fighters, have been in service for decades, nearing the end of their airframe life, with high maintenance costs and difficulties in obtaining spare parts. Faced with budget constraints and modernization needs, Bogota urgently needs to find replacement solutions for its air defense system. China's J-10CE, with its advanced performance and flexible financing conditions, has come into view as a low-cost and high-value-for-money option. The J-10CE is a 4.5-generation multirole fighter equipped with an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, infrared search and track (IRST) sensors, and advanced weapons such as PL-15E long-range missiles, outperforming aircraft like the Rafale, the US F-16, and the Swedish Saab Gripen. Its semi-stealth design, powerful electronic warfare capabilities, and diverse weapon load make it outstanding in both air combat and ground attack missions. It is estimated that each J-10CE costs about $50 million to $60 million, which is more attractive compared to the F-16's $70 million price tag. However, this proposal goes far beyond a simple commercial transaction. The Latin American defense market has long been dominated by the US and Israel. China's involvement is seen as a strategic move to challenge the US influence in the Western Hemisphere. As a NATO global partner, Colombia maintains close military cooperation with the US, and purchasing Chinese fighters could provoke Washington's dissatisfaction and potentially impact bilateral relations. Additionally, integrating a Chinese platform requires addressing training, maintenance, and compatibility with Western equipment, which may offset the price advantage in the short term. Of course, because Colombia and Venezuela are bitter rivals, the external pressure for purchasing Chinese weapons might be reduced. Although the J-10CE has achieved success in Pakistan and is considered a disruptor in the international arms market, whether it can break through ultimately depends on various conditions, especially Colombia's economic strength. From a geopolitical perspective, China's proposal is not just about weapon sales but also part of its strategic layout to deepen ties with Latin American countries through the Belt and Road Initiative. Similarly, China once proposed exchanging the J-10CE for the use of a space launch center in Brazil, but it was rejected. Colombia's decision will not only affect the modernization of its air force but also influence its position in the great power game between China and the US. For Bogota, choosing the J-10CE means technological upgrades and potential shifts in geopolitical alignment, but it also carries the risk of estranging traditional allies. The cost-effectiveness of the J-10CE is very tempting, but whether this deal can go through depends on Colombia's comprehensive assessment of technology, financing, and strategic consequences. This event reflects the changing landscape of global arms trade. As the world's fifth-largest arms exporter, China is narrowing the gap with Western market share by offering high-value platforms like the J-10CE, providing new options for developing countries. Colombia's decision may become a turning point in the Latin American defense market, opening doors for other countries to explore Chinese hardware or reaffirming reliance on Western suppliers. Regardless of the outcome, the promotion of the J-10CE has already placed China under the spotlight of the Latin American military stage, signaling subtle changes in the regional balance of power. [Source: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7506466197853782591/] Disclaimer: This article solely represents the author's personal views. Please express your opinions by clicking the 'Like' or 'Dislike' buttons below.