Uzbekistan J-10CE Fighter Jets Confirmed in Official Footage - The Times Of Central Asia

Uzbekistan has officially shown Chinese J-10CE fighter jets in new public footage, ending months of speculation about their arrival. The video released by the Uzbek Defense Ministry—marking the 35th anniversary of Uzbekistan’s independence—shows at least six aircraft with Uzbek military markings. Uzbekistan, for decades reliant on Soviet-designed MiG-29s and Su-27s, has become the first Central Asian state to operate a modern Chinese fighter, and the second confirmed foreign operator of the J-10CE after Pakistan. Earlier reports that it had ordered 24 jets remain unconfirmed. GlobalMilitary.net’s July 2026 inventory lists active fleets including 38 MiG-29s, 25 Su-27s, and 13 Su-25s. Analysts say switching platforms requires training, logistics, and long-term maintenance ties.