China’s advanced PLA aircraft ready for Russian debut in sign of growing mutual trust
- The J-10B and J-16 fighter jets, and the Y-20 large transport aircraft will be among 11 Chinese aircraft at the International Military Games next week
- Move reflects deepening China-Russia ties, as well as a more open publicity strategy from the Chinese military
Three of China’s most advanced military aircraft will make their debut at the International Army Games in Russia next week, seen as yet another sign of growing military trust and cooperation between Beijing and Moscow.
The move also reflects efforts to improve the Chinese military’s publicity strategy to become more transparent, open-minded, and confident, according to several sources close to the armed forces.
The J-10B and J-16 fighter jets, and the Y-20 large transport aircraft will be making their debuts in the competition on August 23, according to state broadcaster CCTV.
Also called the “War Olympics”, this will be the seventh edition of the annual games organised by the Russian defence ministry. More than 280 teams from 42 countries will participate in competitions to be held in 11 countries, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said earlier.
The competition will also provide a good opportunity for China to test its combat capability, as well as enhance exchanges with Russia which has more experience in real combat, Zhou Chenming, a researcher from the Yuan Wang military science and technology institute in Beijing, said.