China is stepping up its defence diplomacy in Central Africa, offering the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) advanced fighter jets, including the JF‑17 Thunder, in a move that highlights Beijing’s growing ambitions on the continent. A high‑level Chinese delegation recently visited Kinshasa to showcase the light multi-role combat aircraft and explore potential cooperation packages. The delegation, representing the China National Aero-Technology Import & Export Corporation (CATIC) and accompanied by Chinese military officers, briefed Congolese defence officials on the JF‑17’s capabilities,

China is stepping up its defence diplomacy in Central Africa, offering the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) advanced fighter jets, including the JF‑17 Thunder, in a move that highlights Beijing’s growing ambitions on the continent. A high‑level Chinese delegation recently visited Kinshasa to showcase the light multi-role combat aircraft and explore potential cooperation packages. The delegation, representing the China National Aero-Technology Import & Export Corporation (CATIC) and accompanied by Chinese military officers, briefed Congolese defence officials on the JF‑17’s capabilities, pilot training options, and long-term support arrangements. Reports indicate discussions also touched on other Chinese models, including the more advanced J‑10 fighter jet. This offer positions China in direct competition with Russia, which has been promoting its Sukhoi fighters to the DRC. Analysts see the move as part of Beijing’s broader strategy to expand defence partnerships across sub-Saharan Africa through technology transfers and military equipment sales. The initiative is not new. Chinese delegations had already visited Kinshasa in March 2023 to offer combat aircraft, focusing on preliminary discussions around pilot training, maintenance, and logistics. While no deal has yet been finalized, the DRC’s previous purchases of Chinese defence systems, such as surveillance drones, indicate a growing security cooperation with Beijing. For the DRC, acquiring modern combat aircraft would strengthen its air force, which currently relies on older Soviet-era jets, and could enhance its operational capacity in regions facing armed conflicts. For China, supplying jets like the JF‑17 provides a cost-effective alternative for developing nations while expanding its influence and strategic presence in Africa. No official agreement has been signed, and the talks remain exploratory. However, if the deal moves forward, it could reshape military dynamics in Central Africa, giving the DRC a stronger air defence capability while deepening Beijing’s role as a key security partner on the continent.

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