Egypt deploys Chinese HQ-9B air defence system, in pivot away from US: report

Egypt has reportedly deployed a recently purchased Chinese air defence system in an apparent shift away from expensive US hardware that has dominated its military in recent years.

The HQ-9B is seen as Beijing's answer to the Russian-made S-400, which is considered by many to be one of the best air defences in the world.

Retired Egyptian Army Major General Samir Farag recently confirmed to Egyptian TV that Egypt had deployed the system, claiming it would have a significant impact on the regional military balance.

Despite this, there have been questions about the HQ-9B system during the recent Pakistan-India conflict, although other Chinese weaponry performed well.

It follows earlier reports that Egypt had purchased HQ-9B systems, although the quantity and time of delivery were not known. 

China has sold little military hardware in the Middle East, traditionally an arena for US, Russian and European arms makers.

Egypt has been heavily reliant on Western equipment and receives military aid from the US, whilst maintaining security ties with Israel.

Under President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, the country has moved toward diversifying its arms suppliers with reports in 2019 that Egypt was poised to purchase Su-37 fighter jets from Moscow.

The touted deal sparked unease in Washington, and there has been no news on the purchase or deliveries since then.

The New Arab could not independently verify the claims by the officer about Egypt deploying the Chinese HQ-9B system, but the move would likely anger the US which is trying to counter Beijing's influence in the region.

Cairo and Beijing have carried out a series of joint military exercises in Egypt, highlighting the strengthening defence partnership.