The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and China recently conducted their second joint air force exercise, Falcon Shield, in Xinjiang province.
This event has sparked significant concern in Western nations, particularly the United States, due to the potential for China to gain access to Western military technology and the deepening ties between the two nations.
Satellite imagery provided by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) revealed the deployment of multiple UAE Mirage 2000-9 fighter bombers at Hotan Airport in Xinjiang.
These aircraft, also operated by the Taiwanese air force, are stationed separately from Chinese aircraft. However, the close proximity raises concerns about the potential for China to glean valuable information on the capabilities and performance of Western fighter jets.
The Falcon Shield exercise marks the second iteration, with the first having already raised alarms in the West. It is seen as part of China's broader efforts to expand its influence in the UAE and the Middle East. The exercise could provide the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) with valuable insights into the Mirage 2000's capabilities, including dissimilar air combat training.
As the host nation, China has the opportunity to closely observe the UAE's systems and potentially access various assets covertly. Chinese airborne early warning aircraft could monitor the exercise, showcasing their radar's effectiveness in detecting the Mirage 2000. Additionally, the exercise could allow China to assess the performance of its fighter radar, electro-optical systems, and missile seekers in controlled scenarios.
In recent years, the UAE's relationship with China's defense aerospace sector has grown significantly. The UAE Air Force operates Chinese Wing Loong II unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and is considering acquiring the L-15A aircraft, which could necessitate the presence of Chinese support staff.
The UAE's deepening ties with China, including the decision to engage Huawei for its 5G network infrastructure, have strained relations with the US. This has disrupted discussions regarding the UAE's potential purchase of F-35 fighter jets from Lockheed Martin.
