China reveals J-16D and other aircraft at Zhuhai
The J-16D, now in PLAAF service, made its public debut at the Zhuhai Air Show. (Chinese Internet)
China showed off new aircraft and missiles at the Zhuhai air show, including a twin-seat J-16D shown in public for the first time.
Several manned aircraft of interest were in attendance at the opening of China’s premier air show, including the J-16D, J-20A powered by WS10C engines, and images of a future carrier fighter concept.
China opened the 13th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition in Zhuhai on 28 September, 11 months late because of COVID-19.
Beijing has never shown its J-11, J-15 or J-16 fighters at the Zhuhai Air Show before, perhaps because it would be embarrassing for Russian delegations to see Chinese knock-offs of the famous Su-27/Su-30 family.
However, the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) statically displayed a twin-seat J-16D
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
![Latin American fixed-wing capability gaps create openings for industry competition]()
Latin American fixed-wing capability gaps create openings for industry competition
Transport and tanker aircraft represent a growing opportunity in Latin America as countries in the region increasingly look to replace ageing fleets and reduce dependence on second-hand platforms.
-
![With a wave of upgrades, the MQ-9B is ready for high-tech warfare]()
With a wave of upgrades, the MQ-9B is ready for high-tech warfare
The modern battlefield is evolving rapidly — threats range from stealthy cruise missiles to coordinated drone swarms. General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) is meeting these challenges head-on with a series of transformative upgrades to its MQ-9B SkyGuardian® and maritime SeaGuardian® remotely piloted aircraft.
-
![June drone digest: Landmark CCA contract and deep-strike capability flourishes at Eurosatory]()
June drone digest: Landmark CCA contract and deep-strike capability flourishes at Eurosatory
June 2026 saw the landmark acquisition of the first fighter-type Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA), while the month also hosted Eurosatory, which showcased deep-strike capabilities and production deals with the civilian industry.
-
![BAE Systems' UK Combat Air Demonstrator closes in on final assembly]()
BAE Systems' UK Combat Air Demonstrator closes in on final assembly
The first render for the demonstrator was unveiled in July 2025, with BAE Systems now aiming for the start of final assembly by the end of 2026 to prepare the aircraft for first flight by 2027.
