China’s Airshow 2024: A Glimpse of Next-Gen Military Jets and Drones”
The 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, or Airshow China, commenced today in Zhuhai, Guangdong Province, spotlighting an array of China’s military and aerospace advancements alongside strategic exhibits from international partners like Russia. With a focus on cutting-edge aviation and defense technology, the show has drawn over 1,000 exhibitors from 47 countries and is set to run through Sunday, November 17.
Key highlights of this year’s airshow include joint flight performances by China’s J-20 and J-35A stealth fighter jets, as well as Russia’s Su-57 stealth fighter, marking the first instance of all three models performing together. The debut of China’s new J-35A, a lighter model complementing the existing J-20, solidifies China’s position as the second country, following the United States, to operate two types of stealth fighters. Experts suggest the dual capabilities of the J-20 and J-35A significantly enhance China’s aerial combat potential in contested environments.
Drones also took center stage, reflecting their expanding role in modern warfare. A dedicated drone section features the SS-UAV, a massive mothership drone capable of launching smaller units for intelligence and strikes. Additionally, the exhibition will display China’s AG600 “Kunlong” amphibious aircraft, the commercial C919 jetliner, and the ARJ21 regional airliner, underscoring the nation’s advancements in both civil and defense aerospace sectors.
In parallel with military exhibits, China’s growing space sector showcased a model of Haoloong, a reusable space cargo shuttle designed to dock with China’s Tiangong Space Station. This innovation emphasizes China’s ambitions in space exploration and resource reuse.
The event, celebrating the 75th anniversary of the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF), illustrates China’s strides in military and aerospace technology, further positioning the nation as a competitive player in the global defense market.
