Chinese Arms Sales Monthly Snapshot

Egypt, AVIC, AR-500CJ Deal

October 25, 2022 | The Tactical Report

There is discussion about a possible deal between the Egyptian Ministry of Military Production and Aviation Industry Corporation of China for the procurement of AR-500 CJ UAVs. The deal would involve transfer of technology and production agreements.

Algeria, China, and AEW&C Deal

October 24, 2022 | The Tactical Report

The report mentions initial talks between Algeria and China for additional purchase of Chinese airborne early warning and control systems, and radars. Algeria currently has Chinese made Rainbow CH-3, CH-4B, CH-5, and Wing Loong II UAVs in operation.

Myanmar Regime Buys FTC-2000G Fighter Jets from China

October 18, 2022 | The Irrawaddy

Myanmar has ordered several FTC-2000G midrange fighter jets from China. It is not clear when the order was placed, however, the delivery has not been made.

Thai Navy Seeks Submarine Engine Discussions with Chinese Builder

October 04, 2022 | Radio Free Asia

This article discusses the Thai Navy’s renewed efforts to discuss with Chinese manufacturers about purchasing submarines with a Chinese-made engine. The Thai government’s plan to buy three Yuan-class submarines from China were halted because the submarine developer could not obtain a diesel engine from Germany due to the European Union arms embargo imposed on Beijing. When asked if the contract could be canceled in the case of engine examination failure, the new commander of the Thai Navy said that was an option.

Morocco Purchases Modern Chinese Military Drones

October 03, 2022 | Morocco World News

Morocco has purchased Wing Long II military drones, a medium altitude long endurance unmanned aerial vehicle from China. Morocco reportedly purchased the Wing Long II drones to replace an older Chinese type of drone that they had previously used to counter security threats.

Loitering Munitions in the Future of Chinese Warfare

October 21, 2022 | The Diplomat

This article discusses China’s efforts to potentially integrate loitering munitions into its forces and existing platforms, such as the Wing Loong II. China has not implemented loitering munitions into their force but the showing of a Chinese loitering munition at the Thailand Defense and Security 2022 exhibition confirms this possible development. The article assumes that the “PLAAF will want to integrate air-launched loitering munitions from their low observable aircraft and to find uses for them at sea to disrupt adversary naval radars that support early warning and fires.”

Chinese Two-Seat J-20 Fighter Jet Controlling Three GJ-11 Stealth Drones

October 12, 2022 | Air Data News

For the first time, Chinese media “revealed computer-generated images of a two-seat Chengdu J-20 fighter jet in flight accompanied by three GJ-11 stealth drones.” The new version of the J-20 fighter jet will reportedly be used for “reconnaissance, surveillance and attack missions.” China’s efforts to pair a conventional aircraft with semi-autonomous drones resembles the US Air Force’ Loyal Wingman program which will increase its airpower.

H-20: China’s Stealth Bomber Built To Strike America?

October 09, 2022 | 19FortyFive

The article discusses the Chinese H-20 stealth bomber which appears to be based on the U.S. B-2 and B-21 bomber. Based on its range, the jet could threaten countries in China's periphery and with in-air refuelling, could also threaten Hawaii. The H-20 will be nuclear-capable.

Nigeria’s F-7Ni Airguards Returns from Maintenance in China

October 17, 2022 | Military Africa

The article reports that the Nigerian Air Force received ten F-7Ni, more commonly known as the J-7 jets, that underwent "deep maintenance" in China since November 2020. Nigeria procured the jets from China in 2005 and began taking its delivery in 2009.

Chinese VT-4 Tank Takes 30 Minutes to Fire a Shell. After Thailand, Nigeria Now Complains About VT-4 Tanks

October 17, 2022 | Defense View

The deleted original publication by Defense News Nigeria reports that during an exercise, it took almost 30 minutes for the Chinese made VT-4 tank to fire a single shot. The Nigerian Army was unsatisfied and will likely turn to Russian T-90 tank instead.

American Technology Boosts China’s Hypersonic Missile Program

October 17, 2022 | Washington Post

Chinese military research organizations are reportedly acquiring advanced software for China’s hypersonic and missiles program. Private Chinese firms are reportedly purchasing American technology from US firms that receive funding from Pentagon. Some of the technology and hardware being purchased includes computer-aided engineering software, such as aeroelasticity software, and interferometers.

Will China use Pakistan as a Proxy to Arm Myanmar Military?

October 04, 2022 | Irrawaddy

This article discusses China reportedly considering using Pakistan as an intermediary to sell and export military hardware to the Myanmar junta. There is deep anti-China sentiment in Myanmar and China is worried that it will receive backlash if it is seen to be supplying arms to the junta. Pakistan has increased security ties and defense cooperation with Myanmar since the military’s takeover such as reportedly delivering two JF-17 aircraft to Myanmar and talks about purchasing “heavy machine guns, 60 and 81mm mortars and M-79 grenade launcher.”