C-17 + Il-76 + Y-20 = an aviation moment in the skies over China

In recent days, China has witnessed the impressive operation of three core strategic heavy-lifting aircraft within its borders. Among these aircraft are several large US military transport planes, widely interpreted as preparations for US President Donald Trump's upcoming visit to Shenzhen for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) forum next week. On Monday, a Russian-made Il-76 transport plane, a rare sight in China, participated in a firefighting drill in Chongqing.

Footage and images from Chinese social media, shared by plane spotters in Shenzhen, revealed a US Air Force C-17 heavy lifter flying low over the city and reportedly landing at Shenzhen Baoan International Airport on Sunday. According to Armchair Admiral, a Britain-based account monitoring military aviation movements, four C-17s had arrived in Shenzhen from Yokota Air Base in Tokyo so far, all originating from the same base.

The deployment of these aircraft underscores Washington's efforts to airlift support equipment and logistical supplies for Trump's anticipated attendance at the Apec summit, scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday. The C-17s play a crucial role in transporting heavy equipment, including the heavily armoured presidential limousine, "The Beast", that will accompany Trump during his visit.

Additionally, Chongqing saw the Russian Il-76 undertaking exercises to practice firefighting techniques amidst forest fire scenarios. The event involved a diverse range of aircraft, including China's own Y-20 Kunpeng, a strategic transport plane in military service since 2016. The Y-20 is expanding its operational capabilities, with the capability to perform aerial refuelling missions and developing a next-generation airborne early-warning aircraft.