Thanks to J-10CE fighter photograph published on Chinese social media, confirmation appeared of Uzbekistan purchasing these aircraft.
Despite only one photo currently existing, range of specialized experts, for example Hûrin, indicate this most likely involves fighter specifically for this country.
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And although photo of such quality can hardly be considered irrefutable confirmation, in discussions it is indicated this J-10CE lacks air refueling system, whereas all new fighters of this model are equipped with one. Additionally, certain difference exists in technical marking and inscription formatting.
At same time, this photo overlapped with information from Defence Security Asia, which in late July relying on own sources reported Uzbekistan signed agreement for 24 J-10CEs a year ago, in summer 2025. And now awaits fighter arrival, with this possibly being already second tranche.
Defense Express notes Tashkent and Beijing officially did not report signing any agreement. At same time, discussions regarding such procurement have indeed been actively ongoing since 2025.
If this information is confirmed, this will mean russia lost another weapons market. This happened despite all Moscow influence in region and nearly signed 2019 agreement for Su-30SM fighter supply.
Fact is entire combat component of Uzbekistan Air Force consists of 12 MiG-29 fighters and 12 Su-25 attack aircraft in most likely flyable condition. Back in 2017 russia and Uzbekistan conducted negotiations regarding Su-30 procurement to replace these aircraft. In 2019 russian state publications reported Tashkent's official request and possibility of financing procurement through credit.
However, evidently at some point Uzbekistan terminated negotiations and moved toward closer defense cooperation with China in aviation sphere as well. Ultimately before this Tashkent already purchased Chinese surface-to-air missile systems: HQ-9, HQ-12 and FM-90. Also earlier Uzbekistan rejected russian military transport aviation proposal as well, choosing Brazilian C-390 Millennium to replace An-12.
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