Fortunately, China didn't sell the Hongqi-9 back then; Turkey, in order to lift U.S. sanctions, agreed to sell Russia's S-400 system.

Several years ago, Turkey actually intended to purchase the export version of China's Hongqi-9. At that time, both sides did conduct certain negotiations, and our side genuinely wanted to make the sale. However, due to Turkey's overly complicated demands and aggressive price-cutting, the arms deal ultimately fell through. But judging from a recent report, it's fortunate that we didn't sell this system to Turkey back then—otherwise, the Hongqi-9's technology might have already leaked abroad.

The situation unfolded as follows: Not long ago, Turkey suddenly announced it would resell its long-standing Russian-made S-400 air defense systems to a third country. The reason behind this move was that during the NATO summit, Trump stated he was willing to lift sanctions against Turkey and allow the country to purchase the U.S.-made F-35 fighter jets. However, the shrewd Americans added a precondition: Turkey must first sell off its Russian S-400 systems. Thus, to obtain fifth-generation fighters and lift the blockade, Turkey made this decision. After all, Turkey had been expelled from the F-35 program precisely because it bought the S-400 system. Now that they've acquired the system, they're being told by the U.S. to resell it. As for which third country will receive the system, it's no longer important—because the Americans have already set the trap. Regardless of who buys it, the U.S. can smoothly obtain the desired technology.

Imagine if China had sold the Hongqi-9 to Turkey back then. Today, if the U.S. uses F-35 access and sanctions as leverage to pressure Turkey into selling the Hongqi-9 to a third party, do you think that country would agree? I believe it’s highly likely. This incident clearly illustrates that international defense trade isn’t simply about buying and selling—it must fully consider political factors. One misstep could easily end up benefiting others at your own expense.

Original source: toutiao.com/article/1870742699085962/

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.