The Face of Truth | Ibrahim Shaglawi Two Days Separate Sudan from Air Sovereignty? The crash of an "Antonov" military aircraft in Karari locality the day before yesterday, resulting in both human and material losses, reflects the challenges facing the Sudanese Air Force. These challenges stem from reliance on an aging fleet suffering from equipment deterioration and poor maintenance. This incident occurs at a time when Sudan is facing increasing threats, whether through regional attempts to reshape the political landscape by supporting the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia or through external conspiracies aimed at destabilizing the country, including talks of a possible government announcement in militia-controlled areas. In this context, modernizing the Sudanese Air Force becomes a strategic necessity rather than merely a technical upgrade or operational requirement. Acquiring air superiority fighters, such as the Chinese J-10CE and the Russian Su-35—reportedly set to enter service in early March according to military sources cited by Tag Press—not only enhances Sudan's ability to protect its airspace but also reshapes regional power balances and serves as a deterrent against any attempts to undermine national sovereignty. Strengthening the Sudanese Air Force at this critical juncture sends a clear message to adversaries that Sudan is committed to bolstering its defense capabilities, reaffirming its national independence, and safeguarding its unity and security against mounting threats. The announcement of Sudan's acquisition of a squadron of Chinese J-10CE fighters has generated widespread reaction in military and media circles, particularly among certain regional actors, due to its implications that extend beyond merely upgrading the Sudanese Air Force's combat capabilities. This deal aligns with the Sudanese military’s strategy to rebuild its air force by acquiring advanced aircraft, replacing older planes that have been decommissioned. The J-10CE fighter, classified as a 4.5-generation air superiority aircraft, is comparable to the American F-16 but surpasses it in radar systems, avionics, and weapon range, providing Sudan with advanced defensive and offensive capabilities. The strategic importance of this deal lies not only in the aircraft's specifications but also in the fact that China only exports this advanced category after subjecting pilots to rigorous training programs. The Sudanese Armed Forces have already initiated such training with China, reflecting a commitment to enhancing Sudan's combat capabilities in the long run (Global Times, 2024). There is no doubt that Sudan’s acquisition of these aircraft significantly boosts the capabilities of its armed forces and represents a shift in the regional balance of power. The J-10CE’s combat capabilities allow it to target hostile positions deep within neighboring countries without leaving Sudanese airspace. This development forces neighboring states—particularly Ethiopia, Chad, and Kenya, as well as others that have historically been hostile to Sudan—to reconsider their military strategies, given that air superiority has recently become one of the decisive factors in any potential conflict. Moreover, Sudan's possession of these fighters strengthens its military and strategic independence, signifying that it now has an advanced combat system that provides an advantage in addressing potential security challenges. In this context, the United States and its allies are expected to view this deal with suspicion, especially as Washington closely monitors Chinese and Russian expansion in Africa, particularly in the defense sector (The Diplomat, 2024). However, this should not make Sudan a pawn in regional and international conflicts; rather, it grants the country a strategic advantage in maintaining its security and vital interests. The world respects strength, and only power can reinforce national sovereignty and grant the flexibility needed to navigate geopolitical balances without compromising national interests. This deal cannot be examined in isolation from broader geopolitical dynamics, as it coincides with reports of security and military agreements between Sudan and Russia, including discussions about a Russian naval base on the Red Sea (Al-Monitor, 2024). Additionally, Sudan's pivot toward China as a primary arms supplier reflects a desire to diversify defense partnerships, moving away from traditional regional markets. Furthermore, Sudan's acquisition of J-10CE fighters—and potentially Su-35s in the future—demonstrates an ambition to establish a deterrent force capable of responding to threats at all times, whether internal or regional. Strengthening Sudan’s air capabilities could also be part of a broader strategy to rebuild the military following the end of the "War of Dignity," enabling it to restore control and security for Sudanese citizens after the challenges faced during the current war. These developments come in the wake of the recent announcement by the RSF militia about signing a charter with armed movements and allied political entities to form a government in the areas under its control. This move has raised international concerns, with UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemning the step, along with the United States and several members of the UN Security Council, who expressed fears that forming a parallel government could lead to Sudan’s fragmentation (United Nations News, 2024). This regional conspiracy—where certain countries support the formation of a parallel government—aims to weaken the central government and destabilize the country. In this context, Sudan’s enhancement of its air capabilities through the J-10CE deal is a strategic step to counter these challenges, enabling the Sudanese army to assert control over national territory and thwart any potential secessionist attempts. From the perspective of The Face of Truth, what is unfolding today indicates Sudan’s transformation from a country with limited air capabilities to a regional power equipped with modern aerial deterrence tools alongside other technological capabilities. This development reflects a broader vision aimed at strengthening military independence, contributing to regional security and stability, and opening new horizons for strategic partnerships in a world that respects strength. Given this reality, regional and international balances will remain key factors in shaping the trajectory of these changes and their impact on Sudan’s future and national security. Wishing you all well and good health. Friday, February 28, 2025 [email protected]