Iraqi forces have used the Rainbow drone manufactured by China Aerospace Science and Technology Corp in more than 260 strikes against Islamic State. Photo: Xinhua
SCMP: China fills gap left by US in Middle East military drone market, British think tank says
* Manufacturers have been quick to seize opportunity created by Washington’s tighter controls, Royal United Services Institute says
* Jordan, Iraq, Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates among known buyers of Chinese UAVs
China plays a significant role in the supply of military drones to Middle East countries, especially those that are barred from importing them from the United States, a British think tank has said.
The Royal United Services Institute said in a report that China has filled a void left by the US, which has become more selective about exporting armed drones and related technologies to the region.
“China has often been described as a no-questions-asked exporter of drones, has played and is likely to continue playing a key role as a supplier of armed UAVs to the Middle East,” the report said.
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WNU Editor: The report is here .... Armed Drones in the Middle East (RUSI). On a side note, Israel refuses to sell its drones to any Arab state .... Israel refuses to sell drones to Arab state (Middle East Monitor).
More News On The Proliferation Of Armed Chinese Drones In The Middle East
Report: China is driving use of armed drones in Middle East -- AP
China exploits US reluctance with Middle East drone sales -- The National
Game of Drones: Chinese armed drones now flying across Mideast battlefields -- Defense Blog
How China Is Fueling The Arms Race In Drones In The Middle East -- Dominic Dudley, Forbes
