China and Russia further solidify military ties. // Photo by Mark Turner. (Creative Commons)

This sale is the first time in a decade that Russia plans to sell more powerful weapons to China than ones being sold to India, Moscow’s longest strategic partner.

Xi’s trip to Moscow began his presidential visits to both Russia and Africa, two of China's largest trading partners 

The deal was made just before this past weekend’s visit to Moscow by President Xi with the goal to increase military cooperation between both nations. 

China is buying 24 Su-35 fighters and four Lada-class submarines, said China Central Television (CCTV). The price of the weapons has yet to be released. 

Both the Su-35 fighter jets and the Lada-class submarines are new top-of-the-line Russian made weapons. 

The Russian Made Su-35 Fighter Jet.// Alexander Babashov (Creative Commons)

Moscow has always been hesitant with arms sales to China as the threat of duplication of Russian technology is always present. In the past, Moscow had accused Beijing of violating the patents of Russian-made weapons and simply copying Russian technologies for sale in the international arms market. 

Xi’s visit to Moscow was in hopes of continuing the military and political ties between both nations. 

Both nations have had their exchanges and cooperations in areas such as high-level contacts, personnel training, joint exercises, and in military technologies and according to President Xi, they will continue. 

Foreign correspondents for BBC claim that Moscow and Beijing are trying to counterbalance what they see as American military dominance and hope to guarantee the “international strategic balance and peace.” 

Xi’s decision to make Moscow the destination of his first official visit as China’s president gives the United States a firm reminder that they are not the only international leader capable of flexing their muscles. 

Xi is now in Tanzania where he will continue on to several other African countries. 

Reach reporter Joseph Krassenstein here.