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China’s People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) is set to make a significant appearance at the First Egypt International Air Show, taking place from September 3 to 5, 2024. This marks a historic moment as the PLAAF’s Bayi Aerobatic Team performs for the first time in Africa, showcasing China’s growing military influence on the continent.
A Landmark Journey
A Y-20 transport aircraft, along with seven J-10 aerobatic jets from the Bayi Aerobatic Team. They departed from northwest China on Monday. The journey to Egypt covers nearly 10,000 kilometres. It is a challenging route that crosses multiple time zones and varying temperatures. Military experts believe this long-haul deployment will test the logistics, flight skills, and physical endurance of the crew. This will highlight China’s air force capabilities.
Debut Performances in Egypt
The Y-20 aircraft will make its overseas performance debut at the air show. The Y-20, is also referred as the “chubby girl.” It is well-known for its long-range transport capabilities. And is capable of transporting people and cargo over large distances by air.
The Y-20U variant can also refuel other military aircraft. This appearance will be a milestone for the aircraft. By showcasing its advanced capabilities on an international stage. The J-10 jets, China’s first domestically developed advanced fighters, are also set to make their debut in Africa. These jets, known as the “Firebird,” are designed for all-weather operations and are a significant part of China’s air force.
Showcasing Friendship and Capability
During the air show, the Bayi Aerobatic Team plans to perform over the pyramids in Egypt. As a symbolic gesture that highlights the friendship between China and Egypt. The pyramids, representing ancient Egyptian civilisation, will serve as a backdrop for this high-profile performance. By marking a historic moment in the relationship between the two nations. Li Bin, the head of the Bayi Aerobatic Team, expressed excitement about the performance. By calling it a historical witness to the strong ties between China and Egypt.
Expanding Military Influence in Africa
China’s participation in the Egypt International Air Show is part of a broader strategy. In order to expand its military influence in the Middle East and Africa. This region has shown increasing interest in Chinese arm. As it is moving away from traditional Western suppliers.
2017 saw Egypt start negotiations with China to buy 12 of the newest J-10 aircraft. Thus indicating a change in the country’s defense acquisition policy. The country has also purchased dozens of China’s Wing Loong-1D drones, further strengthening its military ties with China.
Other African nations, including Algeria, have also turned to China for military hardware. Algeria recently acquired four advanced WJ-700 Falcon UAVs from China. By adding to its growing arsenal of Chinese-made equipment.
China’s Growing Role in Global Arms Trade
China has become a leading supplier of military equipment in Africa. By overtaking Russia as the largest arms supplier to sub-Saharan Africa between 2019 and 2023. China surpassed Russia with a 19% share in the region’s arms imports during this time. These figures are according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute.
China’s influence in the Middle East and North Africa is also growing, with countries like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates signing multi-billion-dollar arms deals with Beijing. These deals include advanced military technology such as armed drones, ballistic missiles, and anti-drone laserChina’s Air Force Heads to Egypt for Historic Air Show
Future Prospects
The PLAAF’s participation in the First Egypt International Air Show marks a significant milestone in China’s expanding military presence in Africa and the Middle East. As the Bayi Aerobatic Team takes to the skies over Egypt, the world will witness China’s growing influence and its capability to project power far beyond its borders. The event not only showcases China’s advanced military technology but also highlights its strategic partnerships with nations across the globe.
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