Uzbekistan's Air Force is planning a major modernisation of its combat aviation fleet, with authorities reportedly considering the purchase of 24 Chinese J-10CE multirole fighter jets, according to Defence Security Asia.
The outlet said the acquisition of the 4++ generation aircraft would significantly enhance the country's air combat capabilities, Caliber.Az reports.
According to defence analysts, the proposed deal is aimed at gradually reducing Uzbekistan's dependence on Russian-made military aircraft.
If completed, the agreement would also strengthen China's defence-industrial and military influence in Central Asia, increasing its presence in a market traditionally dominated by Russian arms manufacturers.
Defence Security Asia noted that Uzbekistan intends to maintain security cooperation with Russia as part of its multi-vector foreign policy.
By Bakhtiyar Abbasov
