China is deploying its J-10C aircraft to Egypt for the “Eagles of Civilization 2025” exercise, marking a turning point in its military strategy in the Middle East.
In April 2025, China sent a full air squadron to Egypt to participate in the joint military exercise “Eagles of Civilization 2025.” The deployment includes J-10C multirole fighters, Y-20 transport aircraft, a KJ-500 advanced detection aircraft, and a YY-20A aerial refueling aircraft. This is the first time that China and Egypt have held a bilateral air exercise of this scale, reflecting the expansion of Chinese military influence in the Middle East.
The capabilities of the J-10C multirole fighter
The Chengdu J-10C is a fourth-generation fighter designed for air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. It is equipped with an active phased array radar (AESA), an advanced electronic warfare system, and can reach a maximum speed of Mach 2.0. Its combat range is approximately 550 km, which can be extended through in-flight refueling. The J-10C can carry up to 4,500 kg of weapons on 11 hardpoints, including PL-15 air-to-air missiles and guided bombs.
Strategic transport provided by the Y-20
The Xi’an Y-20 is a military transport aircraft capable of carrying up to 66 tons of equipment over a distance of 7,800 km. With a length of 47 meters and a wingspan of 50 meters, it allows for the rapid deployment of troops and heavy equipment. The Y-20 is powered by four WS-20 turbofan engines, providing a total thrust of 560 kN. Its range and payload capacity make it a major asset for long-range logistics operations.
The KJ-500: air surveillance and coordination
The Shaanxi KJ-500 is an airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft equipped with an active electronically scanned array radar providing 360-degree coverage. Based on the Y-9, it is 34 meters long with a wingspan of 38 meters. The KJ-500 can detect targets at ranges of over 470 km and coordinate complex air operations, thereby improving situational awareness and battlefield management.
The YY-20A: in-flight refueling for increased range
The YY-20A is a refueling version of the Y-20, equipped to transfer up to 90 tons of fuel in flight. With a wingspan of 45 meters and a length of 47 meters, it allows fighters such as the J-10C to extend their operational range. The YY-20A is powered by four WS-18 turbojet engines, providing a total thrust of 497 kN. Its in-flight refueling capability is essential for long-endurance missions and remote operations.
Geopolitical implications of the joint exercise
The “Eagles of Civilization 2025” exercise marks an intensification of military relations between China and Egypt. It reflects Beijing’s desire to extend its influence in the Middle East, a region that is strategic for its economic and political interests. This cooperation could foreshadow future agreements on arms sales or access to military bases. It is also part of a broader trend in which China is seeking to strengthen its partnerships with non-Western countries.
International reactions and outlook
China’s deployment in Egypt is raising concerns among Western countries, particularly the United States, about the expansion of Chinese military influence in regions traditionally under their sphere of influence. This initiative could prompt other Middle Eastern countries to strengthen their military ties with China, thereby altering the balance of alliances in the region. Furthermore, it underscores China’s strategy of diversifying its military partnerships beyond the Asia-Pacific region.
War Wings Daily is an independant magazine.