Tel Aviv: Egypt keeps luring the super powers that are opposing the US and want a steady foothold in the Middle East.
Earlier this month, Russia and Egypt performed a joint naval exercise in the Mediterranean Sea. This week China signaled its interest in military presence in Egypt.
The militaries of China and Egypt have recently began a large-scale military exercise, the first of its kind, not far from the border with Israel, in a move that might raise concerns in Jerusalem and send unmistakable warnings to Washington. Fighter jets and numerous other aircraft of various types are taking part in the exercise, which also marks the debut of a segment of China’s arms industry.
According to the JNS website, the exercise, dubbed “Eagles of Civilisation 2025,” began Sunday at Wadi Abu Rish Air Base, roughly 100 kilometers (62 miles) west of the Gulf of Suez, and is expected to continue through mid-May.
According to Israel’s Channel 12 News, the exercise features Chinese J-10C fighter jets, refueling aircraft and KJ-500 airborne early warning planes, as well as Russian-made MiG-29s operated by Egypt. The exercise marks the first overseas deployment of China’s KJ-500, a platform similar to Russia’s A-50.
Israeli sources said that the first of its kind Chinese – Egyptian military exercise is an enhancement of Beijing’s effort for more influence in Africa and Middle East.
-The writer is an Israel-based freelance journalist. The views expressed are of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of Raksha Anirveda
