An impressive lineup of cutting-edge military hardware caught the spotlight at the 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, or Airshow China, demonstrating the prowess of Chinese military equipment and the might of its army at full-steam modernization.
The airshow was held in Zhuhai City of south China's Guangdong Province from Nov 12 to 17 and attracted global attention and massive visitors with its comprehensive display of latest military equipment and outstanding air demonstrations.
China's new medium-sized stealth fighter jet, the J-35A, made its debut by performing a dazzling flying display at the airshow.
It is China's second stealth fighter jet following the J-20. The J-35A, together with the J-20, positions China as the second nation to operate two types of stealth fighter jets, following the U.S. F-22 and F-35.
The rapid development of the aviation industry has promoted the overall cross-generational upgrade of aviation main combat equipment. During the airshow, the Bayi Aerobatic Team and the Hongying Aerobatic Team under the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force showcased stunning maneuvers in the sky.
China's self-developed and most advanced military aircraft, the Y-20 heavy transport aircraft and iconic heavy multi-role fighter jet J-16 also delivered awe-inspiring flying displays.
Another key highlight is the debut of the HQ-19 surface-to-air missile weapon system.
It is designed primarily for regional interception of ballistic missile targets and represents the new-quality combat capabilities for China's land-based air defense and missile defense. It is also flagship equipment for the country's strategic air force to fulfill its role in safeguarding national aerospace security.
This year is also the first time that the Chinese Navy organized a real equipment exhibition. The airshow unveiled the J-15T fighter, J-15D electronic warfare aircraft, and Z-20J helicopter. They are among the latest main combat equipment in active service with the Chinese Navy, forming core weaponry for carrier and amphibious groups.
The J-15T boasts a large combat radius, strengthening air superiority and anti-ship strike capabilities. As a specialized electronic warfare aircraft, the J-15D is a crucial component of the carrier-based aircraft fleet.
The Navy Marine Corps made its inaugural appearance at the airshow, featuring demonstrations of air assault operations using the Z-20J carrier-based helicopter and Z-8C transport helicopter. The corps is responsible for amphibious assault operations in the Navy.
The Army brought seven types of equipment to the exhibition, including the Z-10 armed helicopter and the Z-20 tactical general-purpose helicopter, demonstrating the Army's improvement in its all-domain combat capabilities.