Chinese Fighter Jet, With Israeli Roots, Set for Second Muslim Nation

Uzbekistan has become the second Muslim country to acquire the Chinese Chengdu J-10C fighter jet, following Pakistan. The J-10C bears a striking resemblance to Israel's Lavi fighter, a project canceled by the Israeli government in 1988. Foreign reports suggest that the Lavi's blueprints were sold to China, which sought to accelerate the development of its own fourth-generation fighter. The funds from this sale reportedly helped cover the costs associated with closing the Lavi project in Israel.

The J-10C, described as a 4.5 generation aircraft, has already seen combat. It participated in clashes between Pakistan and India last year, reportedly downing Indian Air Force Rafale jets using the advanced PL-15 radar-guided missile. Uzbekistan has ordered 24 export versions of the aircraft, a move seen as reflecting China's growing influence in Central Asia, a region historically under Russian sway.

This development occurs as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has directed the defense establishment to prepare for the development of a new Israeli fighter jet, emphasizing national security independence. The J-10C, originating from technology developed in Israel, is now being supplied to a second Muslim nation, albeit one that maintains diplomatic relations with Israel. Bangladesh is also reportedly expected to be a future customer for the J-10, which is priced more affordably than comparable aircraft like the F-16 and is being sold to countries seeking alternatives to American military hardware.