China’s largest air show begins today in Zhuhai, Guangdong province, showcasing cutting-edge aviation and military advancements. The 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, also known as Airshow China, will see the debut of the J-35A stealth fighter and the HQ-19 anti-ballistic missile, highlighting the country’s strides in defence technology.
This year’s event opens just a day after the 75th anniversary of the People’s Liberation Army Air Force and marks the first air show since China lifted its stringent pandemic restrictions in 2023. Anticipation has been building, fueled by footage from the air force and state news agency Xinhua, showing aircraft arriving in Zhuhai.
Over six days, the show will feature an array of advanced fighter jets, attack drones, and other high-tech military equipment, offering a comprehensive look at China’s expanding aviation capabilities.
J-35A Stealth Fighter
The J-35A is set to be a showstopper as it makes its debut at the Zhuhai Air Show. Described by the Chinese Air Force as a “medium-sized stealth multi-role fighter,” the J-35A positions China as the only nation besides the U.S. to field two active stealth fighters. Modeled after the J-31 and bearing similarities to the American F-35, the J-35A is designed primarily for airstrip operations, enhancing the PLA’s tactical flexibility and air dominance. However, reports suggest that a future variant of the J-35 may be adapted for aircraft carrier deployment, potentially broadening its operational scope.
HQ-19 Anti-Ballistic Missile
Making its public debut, the HQ-19 represents China’s latest advancement in missile defence technology. This next-generation surface-to-air missile system is engineered to intercept ballistic missiles and hypersonic glide vehicles, a critical capability for modern threat environments. Each mobile HQ-19 unit, mounted on an 8×8 wheeled chassis, is equipped with six interceptors housed in integrated launcher tubes and sophisticated countermeasure technology. It distinguishes the HQ-19 from other PLA air defence systems, such as the HQ-9 and HQ-22, primarily focused on anti-aircraft roles.
SS-UAV Attack Reconnaissance Drone
Nicknamed “Jiu Tian” or “High Sky,” the SS-UAV is a powerful new jet-powered unmanned aerial vehicle weighing 10 tonnes and capable of deploying swarms of smaller drones. Designed for a range of high-stakes missions, the SS-UAV can conduct intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations and engage in electronic warfare and kinetic strikes. It resembles the American A-10 Warthog and the Vietnam-era OV-10 Bronco and combines rugged design with advanced capabilities. The SS-UAV has already been spotted near strategic hotspots, including the South China Sea, the Taiwan Strait, and along China’s border with India, underscoring its role in China’s regional defence strategy.
Z-20 Armed Helicopter
The much-anticipated attack variant of the Z-20 utility helicopter brings enhanced versatility and firepower to China’s military operations. Outfitted with an advanced electro-optical sensor and external wing mounts for various weaponry, this upgraded Z-20 can support a wide array of missions, including assault, anti-submarine warfare, patrol, and reconnaissance. According to its chief designer, future upgrades may enable the helicopter to perform aerial refuelling, further extending its range and operational endurance.
J-15T Carrier-Based Fighter
The PLA Navy is set to unveil the J-15T, a 4.5-generation carrier-based fighter jet, at the Zhuhai Air Show. This upgraded variant features advanced AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) radar and is equipped with cutting-edge airborne weaponry, making it a formidable addition to China’s naval aviation capabilities. Designed for catapult-assisted takeoffs, the J-15T is compatible with China’s latest carriers, including the Fujian, which is currently undergoing sea trials. The J-15T has already seen action, participating in recent drills aboard the active carriers Liaoning and Shandong in the South China Sea, underscoring its readiness for deployment in high-stakes maritime operations.
J-20 Stealth Fighter
The J-20 represents one-half of China’s advanced stealth fighter duo, paired with the newly debuted J-35. Initially considered inferior, this fifth-generation heavyweight has evolved into a formidable rival to the American F-22, with reports indicating it has penetrated Taiwan’s air defences undetected. With mass production now ramping up, the J-20 holds potential advantages in attrition warfare, especially as the U.S. no longer produces the F-22. While the J-20 is designed primarily for air superiority, the more versatile J-35A can perform a range of missions, including air superiority, ground strikes, and maritime operations, giving China’s stealth fighter lineup extensive mission flexibility.
Su-57 Stealth Fighter
Russia is showcasing its most advanced fighter jet, the Su-57, at Zhuhai for its first-ever overseas air show, marking a significant step in the growing China-Russia defence cooperation amid increasing tensions with the West. The Su-57 features cutting-edge thrust vectoring control, granting it unparalleled manoeuvrability and enhancing its combat versatility. In addition to the Su-57, the Russian Knights aerobatic team will perform at the event with Su-35S and Su-30SM jets, making their first air show appearance in eight years. This display highlights both Russia’s advanced aerial capabilities and the strengthening defence ties between Moscow and Beijing.
J-16D Electronic Warfare Fighter
Introduced in 2021, the J-16D is a cutting-edge electronic warfare fighter designed to enhance China’s electromagnetic dominance in combat. Equipped with multiple advanced jamming pods, the J-16D is optimized for disrupting enemy communications, radar, and missile systems. It operates in tandem with other fighters like the J-20, J-16, and J-10C to secure air superiority, particularly in strategically sensitive regions such as the Taiwan Strait. This highly capable platform bolsters China’s ability to dominate the electromagnetic spectrum and gain an edge in modern aerial warfare.
Other Highlights
In addition to the headline-stealing fighters and drones, the show will get an exclusive look at the cargo hold of the Y-20 heavy transport aircraft for the first time. Alongside the Y-20, the IL-76 heavy transport plane and YY-20A air tanker will take to the skies for dynamic aerial displays and be showcased in static displays for closer inspection.
Other key aircraft on display include the H-6K bomber and the KJ-500A early warning aircraft. Beyond military hardware, the air show will feature China’s growing expertise in unmanned systems, weapons technologies, and electronic warfare capabilities. Additionally, state-owned aircraft manufacturer COMAC will prominently represent China’s commercial aviation ambitions, highlighting the country’s progress in the global aerospace market.
Team BharatShakti
