Why Indonesia’s Neighbor is Secretly Buying Chinese Fighter Jets

Bangladesh Plans Acquisition of J-10CE Fighter Jets and Attack Helicopters

Dhaka is evaluating the purchase of up to 24 units of the J-10CE fighter jet to modernize its air force, according to reporting by Reuters. Zahed Ur Rahman stated that a government panel is preparing the groundwork for formal talks with Beijing, though contract values, exact aircraft quantities, and delivery schedules remain undecided pending negotiations.

The J-10CE platform gained significant international attention following claims by Pakistan that the aircraft was deployed to shoot down an Indian fighter jet during a May 2025 border clash—an assertion that remains contested. Rahman noted that Bangladesh has closely monitored the reported combat performance of the Chinese-built fighters during that conflict.

Malaysia Secures US Approval for 33 Used F/A-18 Fighter Jets

While Bangladesh pivots toward Beijing, neighboring Malaysia is expanding its fleet with U.S.-built hardware to monitor the South China Sea. According to Royal Malaysian Air Force chief General Tan Sri Asghar Khan Goriman Khan, Washington has approved Malaysia’s request to acquire 33 secondhand F/A-18C/D Hornet fighter jets formerly operated by Kuwait.

The acquisition, which requires congressional approval under the U.S. Arms Export Control Act following negotiations that began in 2017, is slated for completion this year according to Deputy Defense Minister Adly Zahari. Abdul Rahman Yaacob, a researcher at the Lowy Institute’s Southeast Asia program, told South China Morning Post that deploying these Hornets to East Malaysia will significantly bolster territorial defense near Sarawak’s offshore energy blocks amid rising Chinese activity in the region.

China’s Long-Standing Military Supply Role in South Asia

China has served as Bangladesh’s primary military hardware supplier over the past two decades. Beijing has delivered warships, combat aircraft, main battle tanks, and missile systems to Dhaka’s armed forces. Defense analysts note that finalizing the J-10CE contract would further cement Bangladesh’s reliance on Chinese defense manufacturing for its core military modernization goals.

In contrast, Malaysia’s acquisition of legacy U.S. Hornets complements its recent deployment of French GM400A and U.S. AN/TP77 long-range surveillance radars in East Malaysia. Lowy Institute researcher Abdul Rahman Yaacob characterized Malaysia’s defense strategy as a dual approach: maintaining positive diplomatic and economic ties with Beijing while quietly strengthening deterrent capabilities with Western partners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Bangladesh looking to buy J-10CE fighter jets?

According to government statements reported by Reuters, Bangladesh aims to modernize its air force capabilities by acquiring up to 24 J-10CE aircraft from China, pending the outcome of formal negotiations.

What combat history do the J-10CE jets have?

The aircraft drew international scrutiny after Pakistan claimed a J-10CE was used to shoot down an Indian jet during a May 2025 clash, though that claim is still debated by regional observers.

How is Malaysia upgrading its air defense capabilities?

According to Royal Malaysian Air Force officials cited by regional media, Malaysia secured U.S. approval to purchase 33 secondhand F/A-18C/D Hornets from Kuwait to protect energy assets in the South China Sea.

Who are the primary defense suppliers for Bangladesh and Malaysia?

Reuters reports that China is the dominant arms supplier for Bangladesh, whereas Malaysia balances economic engagement with Beijing alongside close defense procurement ties with the United States and France.