On April 16, the Chinese Ministry of National Defense announced that the Chinese People's Liberation Army Air Force and the Egyptian Air Force would hold their first joint air exercise in mid-April to early May, codenamed "Civilization Eagle 2025." This historic cooperation marks a new phase in Sino-Egyptian relations and adds new complexity to the geopolitical chessboard of the Middle East. Against the backdrop of global powers vying for influence, this exercise is not only symbolic of military cooperation but also part of China's strategic layout to expand its influence in the Middle East.

According to the Chinese Ministry of National Defense, at least five Xi'an Y-20 "Kunpeng" strategic transport aircraft have arrived in Cairo to support the logistics needs of this exercise. The Y-20 is an important achievement of China's military modernization, with a maximum takeoff weight of about 200 tons, payload capacity of 66 tons, and a range of approximately 4,500 miles, capable of operating on rudimentary runways. Its participation not only demonstrates China's capability for long-distance force projection but also highlights the scale of logistics for the exercise.

The exercise includes coordinated flights and tactical training aimed at enhancing the interoperability and modern aerial combat tactical experience of both air forces. Although specific details have yet to be disclosed, such as the types of fighter jets involved or the training location, the South China Morning Post points out that this cooperation will promote coordination in communication protocols, radar systems, and tactical theories. The Egyptian Air Force is renowned for its diverse fleet, including American F-16s, French Rafales, and Russian MiG-29Ms/M2s, while China may deploy advanced platforms like the J-10C, adding technical complexity to the exercise.

The timing of "Civilization Eagle 2025" is intriguing. As a focal point of global geopolitics, the Middle East has always been a stage for great power competition. Egypt, leveraging its strategic position controlling the Suez Canal, which handles about 12% of global trade routes, is a key node in the Belt and Road Initiative. By deepening military ties with Egypt through this exercise, China is not only complementing its economic investments but also making a strategic breakthrough within the traditional spheres of influence of the U.S., Russia, and Europe.

For China, the exercise provides an opportunity to test its military capabilities in the desert terrain of the Middle East and sensitive areas like the Red Sea and Mediterranean. The deployment of the Y-20 indicates China's efforts to enhance its global force projection capabilities, while collaboration with Egypt offers valuable实战experience. Egypt's rich counter-terrorism experience and diversified equipment systems also provide learning opportunities for the Chinese Air Force.

For Egypt, this move is part of its strategy to diversify military partners. For years, Egypt has maintained strategic autonomy by balancing relationships with the U.S., Russia, and France. In recent years, tensions between the U.S. and Egypt over human rights issues and arms sales restrictions have prompted Cairo to seek new partners. Cooperation with China not only provides Egypt access to advanced military technology but also serves as a hedge against risks in a multipolar world.

This exercise inevitably raises discussions about shifts in Middle Eastern alliances. The U.S., as Egypt's long-term ally, has consolidated its influence in Cairo through annual $1.3 billion in military aid and exercises like "Bright Star." However, China's pragmatic approach to military and economic cooperation is gradually becoming an alternative choice for Egypt. The debut of the Y-20 and potential display of the J-10C could pave the way for China's arms exports, challenging the U.S. and Russia in Egypt's weapons market.

Israel and Gulf states are also closely monitoring this development. Israel remains vigilant regarding any signs of technology transfer involving China, while countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE may reassess their balancing strategies between China and the U.S. More broadly, the exercise reflects the intensifying competition between the U.S. and China. The World Trade Organization warns that by 2025, U.S.-China trade may plummet by 81% due to new tariffs, prompting China to accelerate its search for new markets and partners in the Middle East.

Future Outlook: A One-Time Collaboration or the Beginning of a New Axis?

"Civilization Eagle 2025" is more than just a military exercise; it is a window into the shifting dynamics of Middle Eastern power. China and Egypt's cooperation may lay the groundwork for deeper military and economic ties, such as joint operations or arms deals. However, its long-term impact remains unclear. Is this exercise a one-off activity driven by convenience, or the beginning of a closer Beijing-Cairo military partnership? The answer depends on how both sides balance their relationships with major powers like the U.S. and Russia and the evolution of global tensions.

No matter the outcome, this exercise has sent a clear signal to the world: China is entering the Middle East with greater confidence, while Egypt is leveraging its strategic position to seek greater autonomy in an uncertain global landscape. The game has just begun, and the geopolitical landscape of the next few years will reveal its true significance.

Original Source: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7495700595177816576/

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