The second International Air Show in El Alamein concluded on Thursday, gathering military officials, aviation specialists, and industry leaders from over fifty countries. The three-day event showcased advanced aviation equipment, defense technologies, and acrobatic performances, while also serving as a platform for forging new partnerships between nations.
China held a prominent position at the exhibition, presenting one of the largest pavilions that attracted defense delegations from Africa and the Middle East. The Chinese Air Force extended its stay in Egypt to participate in the exposition following the conclusion of two weeks of joint military exercises with their Egyptian counterparts.
'Eagles of Civilization 2026' Exercises
These exercises, known as 'Eagles of Civilization 2026', were conducted at three Egyptian airbases and included practicing complex operational skills such as aerial refueling. Egyptian officials emphasize that when selecting international defense partners, technology transfer and local production remain priorities.
Mohamed Saeed, a consultant at Amstone International Group, noted that 'partnership is based on careful criteria,' stressing the importance of acquiring technologies that can be transferred and subsequently produced locally. Furthermore, China and Egypt are deepening cooperation in space technology. The Egyptian Space Agency reports that China provided significant support in studying future projects, including joint work related to the Moon and space.
Meanwhile, spectacular aerial maneuvers and low-altitude flights impressed spectators. Egypt also used this event to demonstrate its developing domestic defense developments, particularly a micro-drone system created to counter drone threats. As a result, the El Alamein Air Show is increasingly positioning Egypt as a regional hub for aviation, defense technologies, and international military cooperation.