PLA Air Force to showcase latest hardware at Zhuhai Airshow

The People's Liberation Army Air Force plans to display much of its latest hardware at the upcoming 16th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, the largest arms show in the nation, according to a senior officer.

Major General Gao Xiang, deputy head of the Political Work Department of the PLA Air Force, announced at a news conference on Tuesday in Beijing that the Air Force will showcase both combat-proven hardware that has been widely deployed, along with multiple upgraded variants and new-quality combat forces. The equipment on display will cover the Air Force's reconnaissance, early warning, air defense, combat support, airborne units, unmanned systems, intelligent platforms, and munitions, fully demonstrating the outcomes of the service's hardware modernization and the continuous refinement of its operational systems, he noted.

Popularly known as the Zhuhai Airshow, the China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition is one of the largest defense exhibitions in the world and the only regular occasion for members of the public to closely observe Chinese weapons, especially those designed for export purposes.

Gao said the Air Force's flight demonstrations will feature formations and maneuvers designed for real combat scenarios, offering an intuitive showcase of the force's training proficiency and fighting capability.

According to Gao, the Air Force plans to launch immersive programs for visitors, such as open cargo cabin tours and photo opportunities with iconic equipment. It will also organize face-to-face exchanges between the public and pilots and technical specialists to further deepen the bond between the Air Force and the general public.