China’s Expanding Military and Aerospace Capabilities Highlighted at Airshow China

Sub : Sci

Sec :Defence

Why in News

China’s largest air show, Airshow China 2024, has commenced in Zhuhai, drawing global attention as it showcases advancements in the nation’s military and aerospace capabilities. This event serves as a strategic platform for Beijing to demonstrate its technological prowess amidst rising tensions with the United States and regional conflicts involving Taiwan.
Airshow China 2024 coincides with the 75th anniversary of the People’s Liberation Army Air Force, emphasizing the significance of military advancements in China’s national defence strategy.

J-35A Stealth Fighter Jet:

The J-35A is a twin-engine stealth fighter developed by China’s Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, intended for use by the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) as a complement to the J-20.
It is designed as a multi-role stealth aircraft, comparable in design to the U.S. F-35 but with a twin-engine setup for enhanced performance.
Equipped with advanced stealth technologies, the J-35A includes an electro-optical targeting system and sensor fusion capabilities for battlefield awareness. Reports suggest that Pakistan has shown interest in acquiring this aircraft.

J-20 Fighter Jet:

The Chengdu J-20, also known as the “Mighty Dragon,” is China’s premier stealth air-superiority fighter. It is designed primarily for air dominance and counter-air missions.
The J-20 integrates stealth features, advanced avionics, and is powered by indigenous WS-10C engines, though the J-35 may be equipped with the newer WS-19 engine. The J-20 is considered a response to the U.S. F-22 and is one of the few operational fifth-generation fighters worldwide.

SS-UAV “Mothership” Drone:

This advanced UAV platform serves as a “mothership” for launching and controlling smaller drones, potentially for swarming operations or surveillance over extended areas.
The SS-UAV is designed for versatility, carrying multiple drones for reconnaissance or combat operations. It could play a role in future Chinese drone warfare, expanding China’s reach in contested airspace.

Su-57 Fighter Jet:

Russia’s advanced Su-57 stealth jet, noted for its grey-and-white camouflage, performed at the airshow, marking the deepening military ties between the two nations.
Russia’s Su-57 is a fifth-generation multi-role stealth fighter with air superiority and ground attack capabilities. It is designed to counter advanced U.S. fighters like the F-22 and F-35.
The Su-57 incorporates stealth technology, supercruise capability, and advanced radar systems. Russia is enhancing its fleet with additional orders, aiming to improve its competitiveness in the modern aerial battlefield.

Haoloong Space Cargo Shuttle:

Airshow China will unveil a model of “Haoloong,” a homegrown reusable space cargo shuttle, signalling China’s progress in space technology.
Designed for commercial rocket launches, Haoloong is intended to dock with China’s space station, Tiangong, further solidifying China’s role in space exploration.

Strategic and Global Implications:

China has heavily invested in advancing its aviation capabilities to counter regional and global competitors, primarily the United States. Airshow China provides an opportunity to demonstrate these advancements to both potential allies and rivals.
China’s military modernization, including frequent flights of warplanes near Taiwan, demonstrates Beijing’s claim over the self-ruled island and reflects escalating tensions in the region.
With capabilities to produce multiple stealth fighters and sophisticated drones, China’s advancements mark a shift in global military power, potentially intensifying the arms race with other major powers.