Uzbekistan’s Strategic Shift in Military Acquisitions
**Uzbekistan is on the verge of a significant military shift as reports indicate the nation is preparing to acquire fighter jets from China. Local media sources have suggested that the Uzbek government is set to finalize a substantial agreement for the procurement of modern aircraft. The news follows a report from a media outlet closely linked to the Defense Industry Agency of the Uzbek Ministry of Defense, which revealed that Beijing has granted approval for the sale of these jets to the Uzbek Air Force.**
The exact model of the aircraft to be purchased remains undisclosed, though speculation suggests it could be the JF-17 Thunder, a combat aircraft developed collaboratively by China and Pakistan. While no official confirmation has been issued by either party, a video circulating on social media purportedly shows an Uzbek pilot training with one of the Chinese aircraft.
Modernization Goals and Preferences
In its effort to modernize the air force, Uzbekistan had previously explored procuring Rafale fighter jets from the French company Dassault Aviation in 2023. Reports indicated that an official request for information was sent to France concerning the potential acquisition of 24 Rafale jets. However, recent developments suggest that Tashkent has shifted its preference towards the Chinese option, influenced by factors such as lower costs and quicker delivery timelines.
This potential acquisition marks a significant step in deepening military ties between Uzbekistan and China, representing one of the most substantial arms agreements between the two nations. Should the deal come to fruition, it would signal a notable change in Uzbekistan’s procurement strategy, which has previously leaned towards Russian and Western military systems.
Current Fleet and Future Aspirations
At present, the Uzbek Air Force operates a fleet of MiG and Su-series fighter jets, relics from the Soviet era. The modernization of its inventory includes plans to upgrade many of these older aircraft. Transitioning to more advanced platforms that can execute a broader spectrum of missions is expected to enhance the Uzbek military’s air policing, regional deterrence, and offensive capabilities.
Uzbekistan is not alone in its quest to retire outdated Soviet-era aircraft. In late October 2023, neighboring Kazakhstan auctioned more than a hundred outdated Russian fighter jets from the Cold War. This trend reflects a growing inclination among Central Asian countries toward modernizing their military capabilities, including the shift towards acquiring Chinese air defense systems and possibly transport aircraft.
