China hosts an airshow every two years. This allows China to display the most recent military technologies and equipment. It is so important that the event has attracted 740 companies representing 43 countries. It has been a platform of international collaboration that has created a market for businesses.
There will be a variety of military aircraft on display, including a fifth-generation stealth fighter plane and a tanker. Unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) are also featured. There are also Cold War-era ground weapons and missile defense systems on display. Some of the devices are even capable of leaving the atmosphere, like the XQ-58 drone that flew for the first time last year.
The Xian H-6K H-6K Bomber is another interesting new aircraft. It boasts a wider range and higher accuracy than the predecessors. This aircraft is one of the earliest to be equipped with an aeroballistic missile.
China's aerospace industry has experienced great progress over recent years. This includes development of large aircrafts and helicopters. The Aviation Industry Corporation of China (CASC) has invested heavily in research and development. CASC has been working on the AG600M, which is designed to serve as an emergency rescue and firefighting aircraft for the Chinese military. The company also displayed the water-dropping feature of the aircraft at the airshow.
The airshow featured several Chinese military aircraft including the Chengdu J-20 fifthgeneration fighter plane and Z-20 utility helicopter. China North Industries Group Corporation Limited is the manufacturer of both these aircraft. It is a state-owned enterprise at national level that produces aircraft and other military hardware.
China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation also presented a variety military drone projects. CASC has also been actively collaborating with foreign companies and the air show will see a variety of agreement signings, such as a letter of intent for strategic cooperation.
As the world's fourth largest arms exporter, China is vying to sell warplanes and drones to nations throughout the world. China will present its latest weapon systems, including a YU-20 helicopter tanker and a Wing Loong 3 striker drone. Over 740 companies participated in the airshow, providing plenty of choice for those who attended.
Other notable aircraft on display at the airshow include the Caihong-7, or Rainbow 7, a new generation stealth unmanned combat drone. The YY-20 air tanker, which was made for Chinese soldiers to operate, is also on show.
The CH-817 mini-attack drone, weighing in at 800 grams, is unmanned, portable aircraft. The drone is intended for troops as it has high speeds and long flight durations. The CH-817 is not designed for combat but may one day be able accompany the Chinese J-20 fighter into combat.
The China Air Show is a remarkable demonstration of China's determination to expand its aerospace industry and regain its global place. The airshow not only showcases new military technologies but also serves as a major source for global attention and is a showcase of a booming economy.