A report on Wednesday claimed that China relies heavily on reverse-engineering and pirated versions of military technology developed by the United States and other advanced nations. While this strategy provides access to modern systems, it reportedly pairs advanced designs with outdated components, especially low-performance engines, leading to reliability issues in combat situations.
The report, published by Uganda’s Daily Monitor, said that China’s strict information control conceals the true effectiveness of its defense systems. Public displays and media coverage project strength, but real-world tests often expose performance gaps.
Citing Bangladesh as a major Chinese defense customer, the report said authorities there raised concerns over faulty parts and manufacturing defects in naval vessels, aircraft, and onshore systems. These recurring issues, it added, undermine combat readiness and strain long-term maintenance operations.
The report also linked technical failures to a July 2025 Bangladesh Air Force crash in Dhaka that killed dozens. It said the incident demonstrated how poor-quality military equipment can lead to severe human and political consequences.
The report, published by Uganda’s Daily Monitor, said that China’s strict information control conceals the true effectiveness of its defense systems. Public displays and media coverage project strength, but real-world tests often expose performance gaps.
Citing Bangladesh as a major Chinese defense customer, the report said authorities there raised concerns over faulty parts and manufacturing defects in naval vessels, aircraft, and onshore systems. These recurring issues, it added, undermine combat readiness and strain long-term maintenance operations.
The report also linked technical failures to a July 2025 Bangladesh Air Force crash in Dhaka that killed dozens. It said the incident demonstrated how poor-quality military equipment can lead to severe human and political consequences.
