China hosts an airshow every two years. The country can showcase its latest military technology and equipment at this event. In fact, the show is so important that it has drawn over 740 enterprises from 43 countries. It is a platform for international collaboration, and has created a shared market for businesses.
The air show will showcase a variety military aircraft, including a fifth gen stealth fighter and a tanker. The air show will also feature unmanned aerial vehicles and drones. You can also see Cold War-era missile defense systems and ground weapons. 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. It is one of the first Chinese aircraft to carry an aero-ballistic missile.
China's national aerospace industry has made huge strides in recent decades, including the development of large helicopters and aircraft. The Aviation Industry Corporation of China has made significant investments in research and development. CASC has been hard at work on the AG600M. It is intended to be an emergency rescue and firefighting helicopter for the Chinese army. The public was shown the water-dropping function at the Airshow.
A number of Chinese military aircraft were displayed at the airshow. These included the Chengdu J-20 fifth generation fighter aircraft and Z-20 utility helicopter. China North Industries Group Corporation Limited (a national-level state enterprise) produces these two aircraft. They are a major manufacturer for military hardware and aircraft.
China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation showcased various 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.
China is the world's fourth-largest arms exporter. It wants to sell drones and warplanes worldwide. China will show off its latest weapons systems, including a YU-20 aircraft tanker and Wing Loong 3 attack drone. There were over 740 participating companies at the airshow.
Caihong-7, or Rainbow 7 is another notable display aircraft at the airshow. This new generation stealth-unmanned combat drone is also on display. The YY-20, an aerial tanker designed to be operated and maintained by Chinese soldiers, will also be on display.
Lastly, the CH-817 mini-attack drone is a portable, 800 gram unmanned aircraft. It was made for troops and offers long flight times and high speeds. Although not intended for combat use, the CH-817 may be able one day to accompany the Chinese J-20 fighter in combat.
Overall, China Air Show demonstrates the country's resolve to open up its aerospace sector and regain its international standing. 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.