China displays FC-31 fighter model at Saudi defence show in bid to increase exports as Middle East nations explore options

The threat of a wider conflict could encourage nations in the region to expand their fighter jet forces but China has challenges in eroding US dominance

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Visitors attend World Defence Show 2024, north of the Saudi capital Riyadh, on February 4. Photo: AFP

Published: 5:57pm, 12 Feb 2024Updated: 1:32pm, 13 Feb 2024

China’s state-owned aircraft manufacturers were out in force in Saudi Arabia last week, showcasing their latest in fighter jet technology with the hope of exporting more orders to the region.

One major source of interest at the World Defence Show in Riyadh was a model of the FC-31, China’s newest fifth-generation fighter jet built by the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (Avic) and China National Aero-Technology Import and Export Corporation (Catic).

The jet is designed for use on aircraft carriers and is still in the development phase but its makers see it as a potential rival to fifth-generation US jets, the aircraft of choice for many countries in the region.

A Catic official at the show, who asked not to be named, said the FC-31 was not yet in service with the People’s Liberation Army Air Force but would soon be in operation.

The threat of a wider regional conflict could encourage Middle Eastern countries to expand their fighter jet forces but according to observers, China will face big challenges in its bid to chip away at US dominance and fierce competition from other contenders.

FC-31 fighter jets feature stealth technology and are known as the Chinese equivalent of Lockheed Martin’s fifth-generation fighter jet, the F-35.