The 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition (Airshow China) opened on Tuesday in Zhuhai City, the Chinese mainland’s Guangdong Province, attracting more than 1,000 companies from 47 countries and regions.
The highly anticipated event, running through Sunday, promises a thrilling lineup of aerial displays, with about four hours of flight performances scheduled every day.
Spectacular Flight Performances
The Bayi (August 1) Aerobatic Team of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Air Force took to the skies as the first performer. Six J-10C fighter jets soared into the air, releasing smoke in red, yellow, and blue colors. The aerobatic team showcased a series of precise formations and stunts, including the iconic “double aircraft fly-past” and wide-radius rolls.
This marks the 11th appearance of the aerobatic team at the airshow and their debut performance with the new J-10C fighter. The J-10C is a third-generation modified supersonic, multirole fighter developed by China, featuring cutting-edge avionics and advanced weaponry. It has the capability of short- and medium-range air supremacy and precise strikes against ground and maritime targets.
Debut of China’s New Stealth Fighter J-35A
On the opening day, China’s new stealth fighter J-35A made its official debut. As a new-generation multirole stealth fighter, the medium-sized J-35A features an integrated design combining aerodynamics, structure, and stealth capabilities, making it a highly versatile aircraft.
Experts noted that the J-35A ranks among the top in the world for its stealth capabilities, which encompass several aspects such as radar, infrared, optical, and acoustic stealth technologies. The J-35A also boasts a relatively high fuel load factor, allowing for a longer operational range, faster flight speed, and potentially higher service ceiling and payload capacity. Its maneuverability outperforms its competitors in key areas, ensuring far-reaching implications for both national defense and international competition.
With the introduction of the J-35A, China has become the second country, following the U.S., to possess two types of stealth fighters, with the other being the J-20.
Global Debut of ‘Orca’ Unmanned Combat Vessel
The airshow also featured the global debut of the ‘Orca’ unmanned combat vessel, showcasing China’s advancements in unmanned maritime technology. The vessel represents a significant stride in autonomous naval capabilities, highlighting the nation’s commitment to innovation in defense technology.
Reference(s):
Airshow China opens, showcasing cutting-edge aerospace innovations
cgtn.com
