China offers Colombia two dozen J-10 fighters
During the visit of Colombian President Gustavo Petro to China, a proposal was made to sell two squadrons of J-10CE multi-role fighters.
Here's What We Know
According to Infodefensa, China has offered to supply up to 24 J-10CEs or the number of J-10CEs that Colombia needs. The estimated cost of one aircraft is $40 million. The potential deal also includes the supply of air-to-air missiles.
Negotiations between Colombian President Gustavo Petro and Chinese leader Xi Jinping took place shortly after the J-10CE's military debut with the Pakistani air force, during which the fighter shot down a Dassault Rafale and a Su-30MKI.
The main advantage of the Chinese offer is flexible payment terms and short delivery times due to the production capabilities of Chengdu Aircraft Corporation. Colombia is in dire need of replacing its 22 Kfir fighter jets, which are due to expire in 2023, so speed of delivery is critical.
A J-10C fighter jet. Illustration: Air Force of the People's Republic of China
After the offer was made, the President of Colombia discussed it with the Air Force Commander, including the aircraft's capabilities and the feasibility of its purchase. China assured him that the aircraft had already undergone combat tests, unlike the model previously chosen by Colombia, and also guaranteed that it would not veto the supply of spare parts or deployment of the aircraft.
Earlier, Colombia signed a letter of intent with the Swedish government to purchase the JAS-39 Gripen. If the Colombian government supports the Chinese proposal, it could mean a geopolitical shift away from the United States.
At the same time, neighbouring Peru is also looking for a new fighter jet, considering the F-16V Block.70, JAS 39 Gripen, Rafale F4, as well as the South Korean KF-21 Boramae.
Source: Infodefensa
