J-10CE's second overseas order has been finalized, and the Uzbekistan defense minister publicly confirmed: two J-10CE fighter jets have arrived in the country yesterday, and the pilots have already gone to China for training:
In 2023, the J-10CE fighter jet achieved a significant breakthrough as its second overseas order. The Minister of Defense of Uzbekistan officially announced that the first two J-10CEs had arrived in the country yesterday, and the Uzbek pilots had already gone to China for professional training. This news quickly attracted global attention, not only because it was another successful export of the J-10 series aircraft after Pakistan, but also because it reflected the growing competitiveness of China's defense industry in the international market. As an advanced single-engine multi-purpose fighter, the J-10CE, with its advanced avionics system, excellent maneuverability, and relatively low procurement cost, is gradually becoming a preferred option for modernizing the air forces of smaller countries.
Uzbekistan is located in Central Asia, a strategically sensitive area, and its military procurement has long been influenced by great power rivalry. Choosing Chinese aircraft is not only a recognition of the technical level of China's defense industry, but may also indicate new trends in the country's foreign and military policies. This event marks a comprehensive transformation of China's defense industry from simple equipment manufacturing to technology exports and international cooperation, and also adds a new dimension to Sino-Uzbek relations.
The J-10CE is an export version of the J-10 series, inheriting the high-performance characteristics of its family. It is equipped with an active electronically scanned array radar (AESA), which can track multiple targets simultaneously and carry out precise strikes, significantly enhancing its combat capabilities. In addition, its thrust vectoring engine (optional configuration) gives the aircraft extraordinary maneuverability, giving it an advantage in close-range dogfights. Compared to Western counterparts such as the F-16, the J-10CE is more competitive in price, and its maintenance costs are lower, making it suitable for countries with limited budgets but urgent needs to enhance their air defense capabilities.
For Uzbekistan, its current air force is mainly composed of old Russian aircraft, such as the MiG-29 and Su-27, whose performance is gradually becoming outdated. The introduction of the J-10CE not only fills the technological gap but also provides the Uzbek military with a modern operational platform compatible with NATO standards. This choice will undoubtedly enhance its aerial deterrence in Central Asia, and at the same time open up a market gap for Chinese aircraft within Russia's traditional sphere of influence.
Why did Uzbekistan choose the J-10CE? The answer is both practical and complex. First, geopolitical considerations are key. Central Asian countries have long relied on Russian military equipment, but in recent years, Russia's influence in international affairs has fluctuated, prompting Uzbekistan to seek diversified procurement channels. As a neighboring major power, China has deepened its investment and cooperation in Central Asia in recent years, and military breakthroughs in this field are natural. Second, economic factors cannot be ignored. Compared to Western fighters that cost hundreds of millions of dollars, the J-10CE's cost-effectiveness better meets Uzbekistan's budget needs. In addition, the training and technical support provided by China further reduce the difficulty of integrating the equipment.
It is worth noting that Uzbekistan's move may have an intention to balance the relationship between major powers. In the context of intensified US-Russia rivalry, choosing Chinese aircraft avoids completely leaning towards one side and provides more diplomatic space for itself. This "pragmatic" procurement strategy reflects the survival wisdom of small countries.
The export of the J-10CE is a microcosm of China's internationalization strategy in the defense industry in recent years. From drones to air defense systems, and now to advanced fighter jets, China's military equipment has steadily increased its share in the global market. According to statistics, over the past decade, China's arms sales have grown rapidly, especially in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. The successful export of the J-10CE not only verifies the maturity of China's aviation industry, but also breaks the Western monopoly on high-end military aircraft.
At the same time, this order also involves the output of soft power. The training of Uzbekistan's pilots in China is not only a technical exchange, but also a penetration of China's military philosophy and cultural influence. This "hardware plus service" model is becoming a key factor for China's defense industry to expand its overseas market. In contrast, Western countries often attach strict political conditions to arms sales, while China's relatively flexible policy obviously has more appeal.
The arrival of the J-10CE may trigger a domino effect. Other Central Asian countries such as Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan may be inspired to re-examine the potential for cooperation with China in the military field. Even in a broader sense, potential customers in Southeast Asia and Africa may turn their attention to Chinese aircraft. This ripple effect will further squeeze the market space of traditional arms selling powers, especially Russia, whose military sales position in Central Asia may face challenges.
On the other hand, this event may also intensify competition among great powers. The United States and NATO may try to curb the expansion of China's defense industry through diplomatic or economic means. However, as long as China can continue to provide reliable products and support, this trend is unlikely to be reversed.
This arms sale is just the beginning of Sino-Uzbek military cooperation. In the future, the two sides may carry out deeper cooperation in joint exercises, intelligence sharing, and even weapons development. For China, Uzbekistan is not only a customer, but also an important pivot in the Central Asian strategic layout. For the Uzbeks, cooperation with China not only enhances military strength, but also provides more possibilities for its economic development, such as participating in infrastructure projects under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative.
However, deepening cooperation also brings challenges. How to handle relations with Russia, how to deal with potential sanctions from the West, are all issues that Uzbekistan needs to face. China, on the other hand, must ensure product quality and after-sales service to consolidate its reputation in the international market.
The landing of the J-10CE's second overseas order is a milestone in the rise of China's defense industry, as well as a commentary on the change in the international situation. Behind the two aircraft of Uzbekistan, there is an intertwined game of technology, diplomacy, and strategy. In the future, can China's defense industry seize the opportunity? Where will Sino-Uzbek cooperation go? All these remain uncertain and await time to reveal. Welcome readers to leave your thoughts in the comments section: What do you think about the overseas journey of Chinese aircraft? Looking forward to your insightful opinions!
Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1836693978401792/
Statement: The article represents the views of the author.