# Is Russia Losing Influence in the Arms Market?

In the latest edition of the "War Chronicle" segment on Baku TV, the military balance in Central Asian countries was analyzed, along with changes occurring in the field of combat aviation.

It is noted that for many years, the air forces of the region's states operated fighter jets from the "MiG" and "Su" families inherited from the Soviet era, with their repair and spare parts supply mainly carried out from Russia.

However, according to Defence Security Asia, the Uzbek Air Force has received four more Chinese-made J-10CE multirole fighter jets. In total, Tashkent ordered 24 such aircraft, the first batch of which was delivered last year.

It is emphasized that the J-10CE are equipped with modern AESA radars, long-range PL-15E air-to-air missiles, feature high maneuverability, and are relatively affordable in cost. Uzbekistan's choice is also attributed to problems in Russian industry that emerged after the start of hostilities in Ukraine, delays in fulfilling foreign orders, and difficulties with component supplies. Despite maintaining military and economic cooperation with Moscow, Tashkent is pursuing a more balanced policy, acquiring new technologies primarily from China.

The integration of the Chinese-made HQ-9B air defense systems and J-10CE fighter jets purchased by Uzbekistan into a unified network could significantly enhance the country's defense capabilities. If this process proves successful, other Central Asian states may choose a similar path in the future, and China's share in the regional arms market will increase even further.