Welcome to the China-MENA podcast. In this episode, host Jonathan Fulton discusses China's influence on the air domain in the Middle East and North Africa with guests Dr. Assaf Heller and Sarah-Masha Fainberg. They explore potential biases in analyzing China's strategy, its limited security role, concerns about its presence, and its strategic objectives in the region. Gain insights into the implications of China's expanding presence and its effects on military capabilities. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on this important topic.

Takeaways

• Presence in the MENA Region
• Implications on the Air Domain and Military Capabilities
• Concerns about Chinese Exports and Technology Transfers
• Chinese Technology Transfers and Impact on the Air Domain
• Understanding China's Presence in the Region

Quotes

"The Chinese influence in the Middle East should not be overlooked. It encompasses both strategic and operational impact, and we must consider it seriously."- Dr. Assaf Heller

"China seeks to restore and preserve its position as a global power through a national rejuvenation journey." - Sarah-Masha Fainberg

Featured in the Episode

Dr. Assaf Heller​​
Colonel Reserves
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/assaf-heller-242323137/

Sarah-Masha Fainberg
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-masha-fainberg-phd-2602821a9/

Jonathan Fulton
Nonresident Senior Fellow for Middle East Programs at the Atlantic Council. Associate Professor of Political Science at Zayed University in Abu Dhabi
https://ae.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-fulton-2627414bhttps://twitter.com/jonathandfulton

Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
03:53 - Sophisticated Weapon Systems: Development and Transfer by China
07:54 - Balancing China's Strategic Objectives: The Key Challenge
13:42 - Shifting Stance: China's Evolving Role in the Middle East
17:03 - Arab and Jewish Political Influence: Examining China's Perspective
20:59 - Seeking an Unbiased Operational Perspective: Hope of Analysts
22:34 - Potential Confrontation and Implications: Israel-China Dynamics
28:08 - Military-Civil Fusion Concerns: Exploring the Chinese MCF Concept
31:42 - Technology and Arms Exports: Concerns over China's Influence
35:47 - Beto Satellites and Dual Technology Purpose: China's Approach
36:49 - Cooperation Agreements: Lack of Specific and Quantifiable Details
42:41 - Impact on Regional Security: Discussing China's Technological Influence
44:55 - Forecasting Advanced Technology and Arms Transfers by China
47:23 - Seizing Opportunities: China's Role in the Middle East
52:10 - Conclusion