Chinese PLA Air Force, Navy, Army hold joint press conference for first time in Zhuhai

The PLA Air Force, Navy, and Army, in addition to the Aviation Industry Corporation of China held a joint press conference in Zhuhai, South China's Guangdong Province, on Wednesday, to introduce the highlights of the 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, also known as Airshow China. This was the first joint press conference held by the PLA Air Force, Navy, and Army in Zhuhai.

China’s J-35A made its debut at Airshow China, completing the PLA Air Force’s lineup of four main combat fighters, according to Air Force spokesperson Xie Peng on Wednesday.  Publicly available information shows that these fighters include the J-10C, J-16, and J-20. 

Airshow China began in Zhuhai on Tuesday, with a spectacular opening ceremony featuring unprecedented flight performances of three types of stealth fighter jets, featuring the debut of China's J-35A, a formation of J-20s, and Russia’s Su-57 in its first appearance in China.

Airshow China introduced a new dynamic demonstration format integrating air, sea, and ground operations. The PLA Air Force unveiled the J-35A for the first time. Also on display were star aircraft like the J-20 and Y-20. 

The PLA Navy displayed equipment in the static area, including the Y-8 anti-submarine patrol aircraft and the Z-9F shipborne anti-submarine helicopter. The J-15D and J-15T participated in aerobatic displays during the event.

The Navy Marine Corps made appearance at the airshow, featuring demonstrations of air assault operations using the Z-20J carrier-based helicopter and Z-8C transport helicopter, according to Xinhua.

The PLA Army showcased helicopters including the Z-10, Z-20, Z-8. 

Lieutenant Colonel Li Lanxing from an air force training base noted that test pilots find the J-35A highly agile and stable, with excellent operational performance. 

The aircraft combines flexibility, maneuverability, and a high level of comfort. Pilots reported that upon entering the cockpit, they feel confident in its user-friendly design, which facilitates seamless integration between pilot and aircraft, enhancing combat effectiveness.