Tue Dec 03 01:27:20 UTC 2024: ## China’s Zhuhai Airshow Showcases Military Might and Drone Technology Advancements
**ZHUHAI, CHINA** – The biennial China International Aviation & Aerospace Exhibition (Airshow China) in Zhuhai concluded with impressive displays of military hardware and a reported $38.7 billion in sales. The event, which drew nearly 600,000 visitors, showcased a range of new Chinese military aircraft, including the updated Harbin Z-20 helicopter and the highly anticipated J-35A stealth fighter. The Russian Su-57 stealth fighter also made its first international appearance.
While the acrobatic displays and unveiling of new fighter jets garnered significant attention, defense experts emphasized the significance of China’s advancements in drone technology and aviation software. Peter Layton of the Griffith Asia Institute highlighted the importance of AI integration and the development of “loyal wingmen” drones, which can act as sensors, weapons carriers, and cost reducers for fighter jets. The airshow featured a new Chinese heavy drone, capable of carrying both payloads and smaller drones, further highlighting this technological focus.
The advancements showcased in Zhuhai are seen as a direct response to the strategic competition with the United States, with some parallels drawn between Chinese aircraft such as the J-35 and the US F-35. However, for Taiwan, these developments are viewed with considerable concern. Shu Hsiao-Huang of the Taiwan defense think tank INDSR emphasized that China’s rapid progress in fighter jets and advanced drones poses a significant challenge to Taiwan’s air defenses. He stressed the urgent need for Taiwan to modernize its aging aircraft, enhance radar capabilities, develop new missile defenses, and adopt advanced asymmetric warfare strategies to counter China’s growing air power. He expressed worry over Taiwan’s slow pace of modernization in this area. The airshow served as a stark reminder of the increasing military disparity between China and Taiwan.
First Piper 