How the Zhuhai air show charted China’s path from catching up to flying high

In 1996, Zhuhai's inaugural air show displayed China's J-8IIM fighter, a second-generation aircraft with Russian technology, alongside a limited number of domestically-made planes. The foreign aircraft drew much attention, as the Chinese had not yet developed their own fourth-generation fighters. Over the next three decades, China transitioned from relying heavily on Russian technology to becoming the sole country, aside from the United States, to have tested sixth-generation fighters.

This transformation was showcased at the annual China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, now marking its 30th anniversary. Visitor numbers have surged, with nearly 50 countries participating this year, having doubled since 1996. The exhibition has expanded, from 8,000 square meters in 1996 to 135,000 square meters this year, featuring over 3,000 pieces of equipment, including 170 aircraft.

For the first time, a dedicated naval section will be included. China's aviation prowess has grown exponentially, with advanced systems now being showcased earlier than before for both domestic audiences and potential foreign buyers. The J-10, China's fourth-generation fighter, was first displayed at the air show in 2008, 10 years after its maiden flight.

The J-20, China's advanced stealth fighter, was exhibited five years after its initial flight in 2011. Beijing is now showcasing platforms still in development, such as the Jiutian airborne drone mother ship, which debuted at the 2024 air show, a year ahead of its maiden flight. Military analysts believe China's confidence in its military might is further bolstered by its sixth-generation fighter prototypes, which have undergone test flights since December 2024.

The US and China are currently the only countries flight-testing sixth-generation fighters, with the US reportedly planning to deploy its F-47, touted as the world's first sixth-generation fighter.