What Happened
China Expands Mediterranean Reach Through Algerian Fighter Acquisition
Algeria is reportedly negotiating the acquisition of 30-40 Chinese J-10CE multirole fighters and 3-5 KJ-500 airborne early-warning aircraft, which could break Russia’s historic defence monopoly in the country. The deal, if executed, would establish China as a high-end combat-aviation supplier in North Africa and transform the Maghreb air-power balance from 2027. According to reports, the J-10CE would replace or reinforce Algeria’s ageing MiG-29 component, creating a modern medium-weight layer beneath its heavier Su-30MKA and Su-35 force structure. This development was first reported by Unknown Source.