See The Next-Gen Weapons, Stealth Fighters, Drones China Unveiled At Airshow.
China showcased its cutting-edge military technology at the country’s largest airshow in Zhuhai last week, drawing global attention to its rapidly advancing defense capabilities.
The biennial event, which attracts military experts and industry leaders worldwide, served as a stage for China to unveil its next-generation weapons, including stealth fighters, advanced drones, and missile systems.
The airshow attracted nearly 600,000 visitors and secured more than 280 billion yuan in global orders.
Among the highlights was the J35-A stealth fighter, China’s second stealth aircraft following the J-20. Equipped with dual engines, the J35-A is capable of executing air combat missions and precision strikes on ground and maritime targets. Its advanced features draw comparisons to the U.S. F-35, though the Chinese model boasts unique enhancements.
Reports suggest a twin navy variant is also in development, potentially bolstering China’s maritime defense.
The HQ-19 Anti-Ballistic Missile System was another key exhibit. This next-generation surface-to-air missile system is designed to intercept ballistic missiles beyond the atmosphere and track hypersonic glide vehicles. Mounted on an 8×8 high-mobility vehicle, it employs a “cold launch” mechanism for precision and reliability in modern warfare.
China also unveiled the Jetank Drone Mothership, a massive unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) with a wingspan of 25 meters and a payload capacity of six tons.
This jet-powered drone acts as an airborne carrier, capable of launching smaller drones into the battlefield, revolutionizing drone warfare with its versatility.
On the naval front, the Orca Stealth Drone Ship stood out for its radar-resistant design and multi-role capabilities.
With a trimaran structure for stability, this high-speed, 500-ton unmanned vessel can perform fire strikes, missile defense, and anti-submarine operations. It is equipped with phased array radars and vertical launch systems, positioning it as a significant asset in modern naval combat.
The PL-15E Air-to-Air Missile also captured attention for its long-range capabilities, with a range of approximately 200 kilometers and speeds exceeding five times the speed of sound. Compact and effective, it is comparable to the U.S. AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile, solidifying China’s advancements in aerial weaponry.
Adding an international dimension to the event, Russia’s Su-57 stealth fighter made its debut outside of Russia, reflecting growing military cooperation between the two nations. Contracts were signed for its export to other countries, signaling strategic partnerships and expanding defense collaborations.
With innovations in stealth, precision weaponry, and unmanned systems, China continues to strengthen its position on the world stage.