With jets forming complex formations as they soared overhead and amid ground displays of the world’s most advanced fighters, manufacturers from the US, China, South Korea and Turkey gathered in Riyadh to pursue deals of financial and strategic weight.
China was relatively quiet at this year’s World Defence Show, with no air display or senior government delegation. Its exhibits included model J-10CE and J-35A fighter jets, along with Wing Loong and Rainbow series drones which have been making inroads into the Middle East.
Analysts noted that while Chinese drones were continuing to attract buyers, challenges remained in securing Middle Eastern customers for its fighter jets, given the political landscape.
China’s muted presence at the five-day event was in contrast with the 2024 World Defence Show, when it flew its 4.5-generation J-10 fighters, and last week’s Singapore Airshow, where its most recent flying display took place.
Instead, South Korea’s Black Eagles aerobatic team made its first appearance at a Middle Eastern defence exhibition, performing in T-50B Golden Eagles and tracing the Taegeuk symbol in white smoke.
China’s J-10C fighter jet showcased at Singapore Airshow
China’s J-10C fighter jet showcased at Singapore Airshow
While China, unlike other countries, does not release specifications for its airborne weapons, its J-10CE drew attention following the May 2025 India-Pakistan conflict, when Pakistan credited it with downing French-made Rafales.
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