Uzbekistan has confirmed the export of the Chinese J-10 fighter jet, making it the second country to receive the aircraft after Pakistan. However, neither country has officially acknowledged this development.
On August 28, Uzbekistan's state television broadcasted a live coverage of the 35th anniversary of its independence, showcasing six J-10CE fighter jets adorned with the Uzbekistan Air Force insignia. The broadcast included footage of the jets receiving a water salute upon landing at the airport. Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev also attended the event, marking the de facto confirmation of the J-10CE's export to Uzbekistan.
Reports of Uzbekistan's decision to import the J-10CE first emerged in April, but both countries have remained silent on the matter. Earlier this month, photos of J-10CE jets with Uzbekistan markings were released, yet there was no official comment from either side. Uzbek media have reported that the country purchased 24 J-10CE jets, with the initial batch of six already delivered. However, the exact number of jets purchased and the contract amount have not been disclosed. China's state-run Global Times confirmed the acquisition of the J-10CE by Uzbekistan but noted that both governments have not officially verified the purchase.
Why the silence? The Uzbekistan Air Force has traditionally operated Soviet-made MiG-29s and Russian Su-27s. The introduction of the Chinese J-10CE signifies a diversification of its military equipment away from Russian reliance towards Chinese sources. This also indicates an expansion of China's military influence in Central Asia, which has historically been under Russian dominance.
Moreover, once a country purchases fighter jets, it establishes a long-term relationship with the supplier for pilot training, maintenance, parts, armaments, and upgrades over decades. If the J-10CE becomes the mainstay of the Uzbekistan Air Force, China could extend its influence beyond just aircraft sales into the military and defense sectors of Central Asia. This is likely to be unwelcome news for Russia.
Uzbekistan's government may also be cautious about publicly announcing its acquisition of advanced Chinese fighter jets to avoid unnecessarily provoking Russia. Additionally, the J-10CE's notoriety as the aircraft that shot down a Rafale jet adds a layer of sensitivity; acknowledging this could be perceived as aligning with pro-Pakistan and pro-China narratives.
China, for its part, has no need to publicly disclose the arms deal against the wishes of its buyer, Uzbekistan.
The J-10 is a domestically developed fighter jet by China, operational since 2003. The J-10C, an upgraded version, was first revealed in 2017 and is classified as a 4.5-generation fighter. The J-10CE is the export variant of the J-10C, equipped with China's PL-15 air-to-air missile.
The J-10CE gained international attention last May when the Pakistan Air Force reportedly shot down an Indian Rafale jet during a military confrontation, highlighting its capabilities.
Since last year, there have been ongoing reports of countries like Indonesia, Algeria, and Serbia planning to purchase the J-10CE from China. Recently, Bangladesh was also reported to be acquiring 20 units. China's defense industry is actively targeting Central Asia, a region traditionally influenced by Russia, as it seeks to expand its global market presence.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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