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Chinese J-16 fighters deploy to Egypt for Eagles of Civilisation drills
The J-16s covered a 6,000 km journey to an Egyptian airbase, and this year’s exercise is set to focus on air combat tactics and air superiority operations.
Chinese J-16 fighter jets and their aviators have arrived in Egypt ahead of the Eagles of Civilisation 2026 joint exercise, according to the People’s Liberation Army, marking the aircraft’s first deployment to Africa.
The fleet reached an Egyptian airbase after a 6,000 km trip that took about nine hours, with mid-air refueling during the transit, the PLA said, adding that service personnel began preparations for the drills.
The exercise is expected to end early next month, and the SCMP Economy noted the J-16 has previously taken part in overseas drills with Russia and Pakistan.
This year’s activity will be carried out with the Egyptian air force for the first time, with China saying the drills will focus on air combat tactics and air superiority operations, among other elements.