China continues inroads in Middle East with plane sale to UAE
The Emirates announced an initial purchase of 12 L-15 light fighter jets from China.
The United Arab Emirates announced today a new purchase of military aircraft from China.
The UAE Ministry of Defense said they intend to buy 12 L15 planes. They also reserve the option to buy an additional 36 of the aircraft in the future, the ministry said in a tweet.
The L15 jet is also known as the L15 Falcon, or the Hongdu JL-10. It is a relatively lightweight military aircraft that is designed for training purposes.
Why it matters: China has greatly enhanced its relations with several Middle Eastern states in recent years, including some US allies. China was Saudi Arabia’s top export destination at the end of last year. Earlier this month, a Saudi government body signed a training agreement with the Chinese cell phone manufacture Huawei.
