China, home to the world’s second-most powerful military by many global assessments, is deepening defence ties with Egypt, Africa’s strongest military by several measures, as Beijing expands its global military reach through joint exercises spanning three continents.
In August 2026, the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force conducted simultaneous drills with Egypt, Thailand and Belarus, showcasing its ability to deploy forces overseas while strengthening partnerships with strategically important countries.
The drills come as North Africa becomes a key arena in global military competition, with Egypt deepening defence cooperation with China, Morocco strengthening security ties with the United States and Algeria maintaining its long-standing military relationship with Russia.
China’s Military Push Into Africa Through Egypt
The China-Egypt “Eagles of Civilization 2026” air exercise places one of Africa’s largest and most capable militaries at the centre of Beijing’s overseas military cooperation.
