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China refuels J-16s en route to an Egyptian exercise.
The Chinese Air Force is showcasing its long-range deployment capacity, dispatching some of its J-16 fighters to Africa for the first time as part of a wider force package participating in a military exercise in Egypt.
The deployment, as part of the “Eagles of Civilization 2026” exercise, included YY-20A refueling aircraft that helped bring the J-16s to Egypt. The People’s Liberation Army Air Force also sent Y-20A transport aircraft, KJ-500 airborne early warning systems, a Y-9 electronic warfare aircraft and Z-20 medium-lift helicopters, the Chinese military said Aug. 24.
The exercise will run into early September and involve drills in air combat and search-and-rescue missions, it said.
The Chinese military said the 9-hr. deployment to Egypt spanned more than 3,700 mi. “The participation of the J-16 marks the first time China has sent any of its heavyweight fighter jets to Africa,” the government said, noting it had previously sent J-10s to the region.
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