China conducted its first joint air force exercise with Egypt, a key military ally in Africa, on Monday, according to reports from Sing Tao Daily and East Net.
According to a report from Newsis, the air forces of both countries began joint training at an Egyptian airbase on Sunday morning under the operation name Civilization’s Eagle 2025.
The People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) deployed diverse aircraft for the exercise, including J-10 fighter jets, KJ-500 airborne early warning and control aircraft, Y-20 aerial refueling tankers, and various helicopters.
Chinese forces executed a complex logistical operation to ensure efficient deployment, transporting equipment and personnel over 6,000 kilometers (3,728 miles) through multiple countries. All assets arrived by April 15.
Egypt’s Ministry of Defense said the Egyptian Air Force provided MiG-29M/M2 fighter jets from its 104th Tactical Fighter Wing.
During the exercise, the PLAAF demonstrated advanced tactics and showcased its ability to conduct joint operations with multiple aircraft types.
Analysts suggest that this joint air exercise strengthens the defense partnership between China and Egypt and lays the groundwork for future military cooperation and exchanges.
This exercise follows a joint naval drill conducted by China and Egypt in the Mediterranean last August. The Chinese Navy deployed the Type 052D guided-missile destroyer Zhaozuo and the Type 903A replenishment ship Honghu, which trained alongside Egyptian naval forces north of Alexandria.
Egypt’s European Multi-Mission Frigate (FREMM) multi-mission frigate Al-Galala participated in the naval exercise, which focused on communications, formation maneuvering, and replenishment.
The Chinese Navy has been increasingly active in international exercises. Last July, the Zhaozuo participated in joint drills with a Russian corvette in the Gulf of Finland, conducting simulated mine clearance and search-and-rescue operations.
Additionally, Chinese forces participated in the China-Tanzania Peace Unification-2024 counter-terrorism exercise in Mapinga, Tanzania.
