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China boosts military footprint in Egypt as investment accelerates
Egyptian firms signed 17 export contracts worth US$168 million with Chinese buyers last month, underscoring the growing economic ties tied to Beijing’s expanding presence.
China is expanding its military presence abroad alongside a growing economic footprint, with recent activity in Egypt highlighted as a key example, according to SCMP Economy.
SCMP Economy reports that Chinese J-16 fighters have flown in Egypt recently, supported by YU-20 tankers that refuelled them in the air, with the jets taking part in Egypt’s “Eagles of Civilisation” exercise alongside Egyptian Rafales and MiG-29s.
The report also points to the depth of commercial engagement, saying Egyptian firms signed 17 export contracts worth US$168 million with Chinese buyers last month.
Beijing’s investment in Egypt in the first half of 2026 is estimated at up to US$2 billion, with much of the funding directed toward the expansion of existing projects, SCMP Economy added.