Uzbekistan buys Chinese J-10CE fighter jets

Uzbekistan has officially confirmed adding Chinese Chengdu J-10CE fighter jets to its air force. The confirmation came after state broadcaster O‘zbekiston 24 showed images of the jets on August 28 during independence day celebrations.

The country's Ministry of Defense released footage of the new aircraft with the slogan "The air borders are protected by modern fighters." The images showed the J-10CEs in flight and performing maneuvers over Uzbek territory. At least six jets were identified, received at an air base with a traditional water salute. The aircraft bear Uzbekistan's insignia on their vertical stabilizers.

Authorities have not officially disclosed the total number of planes purchased, the contract value, the delivery schedule, or the associated weaponry package. The images confirm at least six aircraft have been incorporated. Previous reports had mentioned the possibility of a larger acquisition, but those figures still lack official confirmation.

A Technological Leap

The J-10CE represents a significant technological leap for the Uzbek Air Force. This force currently operates a fleet of Soviet-origin aircraft, including MiG-29 and Su-27 fighters, as well as Su-25 attack planes.

The J-10CE is the export version of the Chinese J-10C, developed by Chengdu Aircraft Corporation. It is a single-engine, delta-canard configuration fighter, often classified as a 4++ generation aircraft. It is equipped with an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, digital avionics, electronic warfare systems, and the capability to employ long-range air-to-air weapons. Associated weaponry for the family includes the PL-10 and, notably, the beyond-visual-range PL-15 missile.

The introduction of this platform, designed from the outset around modern sensors, data links, and electronic warfare, reduces Uzbekistan's dependence on its Soviet-era fighter fleet.

A New Market for the Chinese Fighter

Uzbekistan's incorporation must be analyzed within the J-10CE's growing international expansion. Pakistan remains the only previous confirmed foreign operator. Other countries have shown varying degrees of interest in the model.

In Asia, Bangladesh is negotiating the acquisition of 24 J-10CEs. Dhaka seeks to replace part of its aging F-7 fleet and complement its MiG-29s, though the deal has not yet been formalized. Indonesia has also expressed interest in the J-10C but has not finalized a purchase.

Interest extends to Africa. Egypt has been linked since 2024 with a possible J-10C acquisition. More recent reports mentioned Algerian talks for up to 40 J-10 fighters and KJ-500 early warning aircraft. Sudan was also previously cited as a potential J-10CE client. None of these operations, however, possess the same degree of confirmation as the Uzbek acquisition.

With Uzbekistan, China gains a second confirmed foreign operator of the J-10CE. The appearance of new potential clients in Asia and Africa shows Beijing seeks to position the jet as a competitive alternative to American, European, and Russian fighters. It targets markets demanding modern combat capabilities but with budgetary or political restrictions limiting access to certain Western platforms.

The jets now patrol Uzbekistan's borders.