China has been negotiating major arms deals with Saudi Arabia and Egypt as both countries want to become less reliant on the US and Russia for their defence needs, reports said.
Saudi Arabia Military Industries (SAMI) is currently in talks with China's state-owned North Industries Group Corporation (Norinco) to acquire a range of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), also known as drones, and air defence systems, as per a report by SCMP.
The discussions have apparently "reached an advanced stage", and have been ongoing for about a year, said Tactical Report.
It quoted an unnamed source close to the deal, adding that it is speculated that its currency will be Chinese, the yuan.
Egypt is said be in separate talks with Beijing to acquire the Chengdu J-10C multirole fighter jet, also known as the Vigorous Dragon. It is the most advanced J-10 variant and is powered by an indigenous engine.
To further negotiations started late last year, a delegation from the Egyptian Air Force (EAF) is expected to meet representatives from the Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group on the side-lines of the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition in Malaysia this week.
China is "emerging as the secondary arms supplier of choice for many Middle East countries."