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Will China Become Iran’s Major Defense Partner?
- Iran is seeking to modernize its aging air force by acquiring advanced fighter jets, focusing on Chinese J-10C aircraft after its stalled Russian Su-35 deal in 2023.
- This shift follows Russia's delayed Su-35 deliveries amid its Ukraine war, combined with Iran's urgent need to rebuild defenses after Israel's air superiority in the 2025 conflict weakened its military.
- Iran's current fleet largely consists of decades-old American and Soviet aircraft, many requiring constant maintenance, while Chinese J-10C jets offer modern avionics, AESA radar, and long-range missiles.
- Negotiations with China, initiated by Defence Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh, face hurdles including payment issues and Beijing's caution due to its relations with Iran's Sunni Arab neighbors and US ties.
- The pursuit of Chinese jets highlights Iran's strategic isolation and growing skepticism toward Russia, suggesting limited foreign military support will constrain Iran's air power modernization.
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