Chinese J-10 and J-31 fighters offered to Egypt as alternative to US jets.

The Egyptian Air Force is considering acquiring Chinese J-10C and J-31 fighter jets to modernize its fleet, positioning the People's Republic of China (PRC) as a logical secondary supplier amidst complex relationships with Russia and the United States. The J-10C offers advanced capabilities at a lower cost, while the J-31 would counter Israel's F-35s. This initiative comes as Egypt seeks to diversify its military assets due to ongoing sanctions on Russia and the close U.S. relationship with Israel.
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The Shenyang FC-31, also known as the J-31,is a twin-engine, mid-size fifth-generation jet fighter currently under development by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation (Picture source: ArmyRecognition)

Discussions between Egyptian and Chinese officials are ongoing, with recent reports indicating that the Commander of the Egyptian Air Force, Lieutenant General Mahmoud Fouad Abdel Gawad, met with his Chinese counterpart, General Chang Dingqiu, in Beijing. These discussions include the potential sale of J-10C and J-31 fighter jets, highlighting Egypt's interest in modernizing its air force. Egypt has a history of purchasing Chinese military equipment, including Xi’an H-6 bombers and J-6 fighters, and has shown increasing interest in advanced fighters since late 2022.

The Chengdu J-10C is a fourth-generation, single-engine, multi-role fighter aircraft developed by Chengdu Aircraft Industry Corporation (CAC). The J-10 program began in 1986 with the goal of developing a fighter capable of countering the Russian MiG-29 and Su-27. The J-10C, an upgraded variant, features advanced electronic warfare systems and an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar. It supports multirole capabilities with targeting pods, laser-guided bombs, and air-to-air missiles. The J-10C officially entered service with the Chinese Air Force in December 2017 and, according to recent reports, is operated by China and Pakistan. Egypt has expressed interest in acquiring a dozen units, with the lower cost compared to Western and Russian fighters being a significant selling point for the J-10C.

The J-10C is designed with a "tailless delta-canard" aerodynamic layout, enhancing its maneuverability and overall lift. It is powered by a single Russian Lyulka-Saturn AL-31FN turbofan engine, capable of reaching a maximum speed of 2,200 km/h and a range of 3,200 km. The aircraft is also equipped with modern avionics, including an IRST sensor and various externally-mounted avionics pods for navigation, attack targeting, and electronic reconnaissance missions.

The Shenyang J-31, also known as the FC-31, is a fifth-generation, twin-engine stealth fighter developed by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, a subsidiary of the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC). The J-31 made its maiden flight on October 31, 2012. It is intended for various roles, including close-air support, aerial bombing, and interdiction operations. The aircraft measures approximately 16.9 meters in length, 4.8 meters in height, and has a wingspan of 11.5 meters, with a maximum take-off weight of 25 tons. It can reach speeds of up to 2,200 km/h.

The J-31 features advanced stealth characteristics, including an internal weapons bay and a diverter-less supersonic inlet design, enhancing its radar evasion capabilities. The aircraft is equipped with modern avionics, including an AESA radar, IRST systems, and an electro-optical targeting system. These capabilities position the J-31 as a significant advancement in Chinese military aviation, with potential export versions likely to attract countries seeking an alternative to Western fifth-generation fighters.

J-10B at the Zhuhai Jinwan airport ahead of Airshow China 2018  (Picture source: Wikimedia)

Variants of the J-31 include the F-60 for export. In terms of armament, the J-31 can be equipped with PL-10 short-range missiles and PL-12 medium-range air-to-air missiles. It can also carry 8 deep-penetration bombs of 500 kg each and 30 smaller bombs, with six external hardpoints and an internal bay.

The avionics include a Distributed Aperture System (DAS) optical early-warning system and an Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS). For mobility, the J-31 is powered by two Klimov RD-33 engines, achieving a speed of 2,200 km/h (Mach 1.8) and a range of 4,000 km. Its potential export to Egypt would mark the first international sale, unless Pakistan orders it first.

China's emergence as a major player in the global arms market is evident, ranking fourth in arms exports between 2019 and 2023, according to a Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) report. Egypt, a key player in global arms imports, ranks seventh, sourcing weapons from France, Germany, Russia, and the United States. The longstanding defense relationship between Egypt and China dates back to the 1970s, following Egypt's distancing from the Soviet Union after the Yom Kippur War. Over the decades, Egypt has diversified its arsenal with a range of Chinese hardware, including submarines, destroyers, missile boats, and various aircraft.

The strategic partnership between Egypt and China is underscored by significant arms deals and collaborative production efforts. Recent meetings between Egyptian and Chinese military officials, including a visit to Tangshan Air Force Base, where Egyptian officials observed a performance by Chinese J-10C fighter aircraft, highlight ongoing cooperation. Discussions have also included joint manufacturing projects and advanced technology transfers, emphasizing both nations' commitment to exploring new areas of collaboration.

China's non-interference policy and strategic approach to arms exports appeal to Egypt, as Beijing does not impose political conditions and ensures that agreements do not disrupt the regional military balance. This policy, combined with competitive pricing and advanced technology, makes China an attractive supplier for Egypt's defense needs.