Aircraft
China Adds Muscle to Military Aviation Capabilities
New airlifter and advanced trainer lead latest Chinese developments
A400M-class Y-15 (Y-30) airlifter
The A400M-class Y-15 (Y-30) airlifter took to the skies for the first time with interim WJ-6C engines on December 16. © Hongdu

China’s military aviation industry has shocked Western analysts repeatedly over the last few years, with designs such as the Chengdu J-20 and Shenyang J-35 fifth-generation fighters and, more recently, the Chengdu J-36 and Shenyang J-XX sixth-generation fighter prototypes. The speed of technological advance has led to a major leap in China’s military capabilities, and with the latest revelations, the country's aerospace industry is showing no signs of slowing down.

Many of China’s latest types and developments have been unveiled—officially or unofficially—during the winter months. This winter has not disappointed, with two new crewed aircraft types taking to the skies and other important developments being revealed.

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