China's growing presence in the global defence export market is facing challenges as several nations grapple with issues related to the quality and after-sales support of Chinese weaponry. Reports indicate that Jordan, Iraq, and Algeria have experienced problems with CH-4B armed drones purchased from China, including crashes and performance issues. This has led to a shift in the drone market towards competitors like Türkiye.
Other nations, including Algeria, Egypt, Iran, and Sri Lanka, have reportedly ceased major defence procurements from China due to similar concerns. The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) has also noted a decline in Chinese defence exports.
While China's lower prices compared to Western and Russian counterparts have attracted customers in Asia, particularly Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Myanmar, these nations are now reporting issues with a range of Chinese military equipment. Bangladesh has experienced problems with K-8 jet trainers, F-7 fighter jets, FM-90 air defence systems, and MBT 2000 tanks. Myanmar has faced challenges with JF-17 fighters co-developed with Pakistan.
Even Pakistan, the largest importer of Chinese arms, has encountered difficulties with J-10 and JF-17 fighter jets, VT-4 tanks, and various air defence and naval systems. The Thai Navy, after acquiring Chinese Type 071E ships, opted to have Western firms install critical systems due to concerns over the quality of Chinese equipment.
These issues highlight the challenges China faces in maintaining its competitiveness in the global arms market. While the lower prices of Chinese weaponry may initially attract customers, the recurring problems with quality and after-sales support are leading some nations to seek alternatives.
