Egypt Looking to Buy Chinese J-31 Stealth Jet to Counter Israeli F-35

Egypt has opened confidential talks with China to purchase its J-31 stealth fighter besides the J-10C to match the capabilities of its air force with that of Israel which possesses the most advanced fighters in the region.

Official sources confirmed to SavunmaSanayiST.com that these negotiations are underway, with particular interest in countering the Israeli F-35s.

Egyptian Air Force Commander Lieutenant General Mahmoud Fuad Abdel Gawad recently met with his Chinese counterpart, General Chang Dingqiu, in Beijing to explore the potential transfer of these aircraft. This development follows Egypt's failed attempt to purchase 24 Russian Su-35 jets, hindered by the threat of American sanctions.

Currently, Egypt's most advanced aircraft is the Rafale, which is considered less capable compared to Israel’s fleet of F-35, F-15, and F-16 jets.

Historically, Egypt has shown interest in Chinese military systems, previously attempting to acquire H-6 bombers and J-6 fighter jets.

The J-31, now referred to as the J-31B, is poised for military service in China. A recent CCTV video highlighted the fighter's readiness, showcasing its side weapon bays capable of carrying two missiles each. Military analyst Fu Qianshao noted that this development marks China's advancement in stealth technology, positioning the J-31B as a rival to the U.S. F-35 Lightning II.

The introduction of the J-31B would make China the second country, after the United States, to operate two types of stealth fighters. While the precise role of the J-31B remains unclear, experts suggest it may be land-based rather than carrier-based, with enhanced combat capabilities.

China has recently started promoting its FC-31 (known as J-31 in the domestic market) internationally.

China's FC-31, intended for export, was recently displayed at the World Defence Show in Saudi Arabia, signaling its upcoming operational status.

In January, the Pakistan Air Force chief announced that the country is progressing towards acquiring the FC-31 Gyrfalcon, a fifth-generation fighter, as part of its modernization efforts.

Chinese media claims that the FC-31 (J-31) are superior to the American F-35.