Another Muslim country is receiving the legacy of a previous Israeli aircraft project as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu instructs the defense establishment to prepare for the development of a new Israeli fighter jet in an effort to maintain Israel’s defense independence.
A video broadcast on Uzbek television confirmed that Uzbekistan will become the second customer of China’s J-10C fighter jet, after Pakistan became the first country to purchase the aircraft.
The J-10 bears a strong resemblance to Israel’s Lavi fighter jet, developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), whose production was canceled after a government decision in 1988.
According to foreign reports, China later bought the Lavi's plans to accelerate the development of a domestically produced fourth-generation fighter jet and modernize its air force. The funds China paid helped cover the costs of ending the project in Israel.
The Chinese fighter has already been used in combat, participating in aerial clashes between Pakistan and India last year. The aircraft was reportedly used to shoot down Indian Air Force Rafale fighter jets while carrying the advanced PL-15 radar-guided missile.
Uzbekistan's order reflects increasing Chinese influence in Central Asia
Uzbekistan has ordered 24 J-10 aircraft in the export configuration, a move that reflects China’s growing influence in Central Asia, where countries were previously under Russian influence.
The aircraft, which originated in Lod, is now serving a second Muslim country, although one that maintains diplomatic relations with Israel.
According to assessments, Muslim-majority Bangladesh could also become the next customer for the J-10. The aircraft is cheaper than the American F-16 and is marketed to countries that are not interested in purchasing US-made fighter jets.