China Announces Joint Air Drills With Egypt and Highlights Defense Capabilities

The Chinese Ministry of National Defense announced that the Chinese and Egyptian air forces will conduct the 'Eagles of Civilization 2026' joint training exercise in Egypt from mid-August to early September. Spokesperson Senior Colonel Chen Xi stated that the drills will focus on air combat tactics, air superiority operations, and combat search and rescue. During the regular briefing, Chen also highlighted domestic defense mobilization, the broad reach of recent military media productions, and China's stance on regional defense developments.

The joint drill in Egypt represents an ongoing expansion of the People's Liberation Army Air Force's operational reach and bilateral defense diplomacy in the Middle East and North Africa. Simultaneously, Beijing's emphasis on public defense mobilization and messaging reflects continuous efforts to align domestic readiness with modernization goals ahead of the PLA's 2027 centenary milestones.

The Chinese People's Liberation Army Air Force will participate in the 'Eagles of Civilization 2026' joint training exercise with the Egyptian Air Force in Egypt from mid-August to early September, according to the Ministry of National Defense. Speaking at a regular press conference in Beijing, defense spokesperson Senior Colonel Chen Xi stated that the exercise marks the second iteration of the bilateral series. The training program is scheduled to focus on air combat tactics, air superiority operations, combat search and rescue, and force employment drills. Chen noted that the exercise aims to enhance mutual trust, deepen substantive cooperation between the two militaries, and support regional stability. Beyond external engagements, the briefing addressed recent domestic defense communication and youth mobilization efforts. Chen reported that the ideological documentary series *Zhisheng* (Winning), released around the August 1 Army Day, has garnered over 7.9 billion impressions across all media formats. According to the spokesperson, the series showcases the armed forces' training realities, weapon systems, and joint operational system development, specifically highlighting advancements in new-domain combat capabilities under Xi Jinping Thought on Strengthening the Military. Chen also reviewed the 11th National Student Military Training Camp, held in Dalian, Liaoning Province, from July 30 to August 12. Jointly organized by the Ministry of Education, the Central Military Commission's National Defense Mobilization Department, and the Air Force, the camp gathered over 700 high school and university students. Participants engaged in military skills training, unmanned equipment operations, and specialized Air Force curriculum modules designed to strengthen military literacy and defense awareness among youth. Addressing historical and regional security matters ahead of the anniversary of Japan's surrender in World War II, Chen reiterated China's position on regional military modernization trends, urging adherence to post-war international frameworks and defensive principles as neighboring states prepare upcoming defense budget requests.