The Pentagon is closely monitoring sales of Chinese fighter jets 0 7

China is reaching a new level in the global fighter jet market thanks to the growth of exports of three modern models, including the stealthy FC-31, which has attracted interest from Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, according to a Pentagon report.

The new Pentagon report highlights the rapid growth of China's defense aviation industry and its impact on the global market. Over the past year, new aircraft models have been showcased, including the J-36, J-XDS, J-35A, and J-15D. The report notes that China plans to build six aircraft carriers by 2035, with the fourth ship currently under construction – the first with a possible nuclear installation, The War Zone reports.

In the export programs, three fighter jets stand out: the FC-31 (export version of the J-35), J-10C, and JF-17 Thunder. According to the Pentagon, the FC-31 currently has no orders, but Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE have shown interest.

The J-10C has already been purchased by Pakistan – at least 20 units have been delivered, with another 16 expected under contract.

China is actively promoting the successes of the J-10C and its missiles in Pakistan, while new potential buyers – Egypt, Uzbekistan, Indonesia, Iran, and Bangladesh – have not yet signed official contracts.

The JF-17 remains the most budget-friendly and best-selling export option.

According to the Pentagon, by May 2024 it has been supplied to Azerbaijan, Myanmar, Nigeria, and Pakistan, with negotiations ongoing for exports to Iraq. However, the reasons for Iraq's interest in purchasing the JF-17 are not disclosed; possible reasons include expanding the fleet of fighter jets or issues with the operation of American F-16IQs.

Analysts note that China is becoming an increasingly active player in the complex military aviation market. The combination of relatively low prices, technical flexibility, and the absence of Western export restrictions makes Chinese fighter jets attractive to developing countries. Additionally, China actively offers comprehensive solutions – for example, equipping manned fighter jets with modern combat drones, as well as financial incentives and flexible payment schemes.

The Pentagon report emphasizes the political role of China's arms exports, linking it to the "Belt and Road" initiative and support for numerous economically developing clients, primarily on the African continent.

Last year, China decided to showcase the stealth fighter J-35A at an international airshow for the first time.

Chinese engineers have developed a new technology for integrating ultra-thin radar-absorbing coating into the aircraft's thermal insulation layer without increasing its weight.