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China's self-developed Y-20, YY-20 military aircraft to make waves at Airshow China

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China's self-developed Y-20, YY-20 military aircraft to make waves at Airshow China

2024-11-06 15:42 Last Updated At:16:17

China's self-developed and most advanced military aircraft, the Y-20 heavy transport aircraft and the YY-20 refueling aircraft, are poised to make waves at the upcoming 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, also known as Airshow China.

Y-20 is officially codenamed "Kunpeng" after a mythical bird that can fly vast distances.

The military aircraft are set to impress audiences through a series of spectacular aerial performances and ground displays, offering a glimpse into the capabilities of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force.

"At the Zhuhai Airshow, we have dispatched one Y-20 transport aircraft and two YY-20 refueling aircraft. The YY-20 will deliver multiple aerial performances at Zhuhai Jinwan Airport, and together with the Y-20, the YY-20 will also participate in static ground exhibit, offering a comprehensive showcase of China's domestically-produced large multi-purpose transport aircraft and large aerial refueling aircraft," said Han Jiachun, a pilot with the Central Theater Command Air Force.

The aircrew participating at the airshow not only boast rich flight experience, but also have demonstrated China's military aviation prowess at international airshows in Austria, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Egypt and other countries.

To provide the audience with a truly breathtaking experience, they have choreographed an array of high-difficulty maneuvers, pushing the limits of both the aircraft and their own skills.

In addition, the static ground exhibit is set to be a big draw.

For the first time, the Y-20 will open its cargo hold to the public, allowing visitors to step inside and explore the aircraft's interior.

"The opening event will allow everyone to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the internal structure and functionality of the Y-20. During the process, we will also share stories about our aircraft's involvement in real combats, trainings and humanitarian rescue missions, as well as the growth and development of our airlift units. Our goal is to make these strategic assets a shining name brand demonstrating the strength of the PLA," said Wang Yuhao, another pilot with the Central Theater Command Air Force.

The air show, scheduled for Nov 12-17, coincides with the commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People's Liberation Army Air Force, which falls on Nov 11.

China's self-developed Y-20, YY-20 military aircraft to make waves at  Airshow China

China's self-developed Y-20, YY-20 military aircraft to make waves at Airshow China

The China Media Group (CMG) held the first rehearsal for the 2026 Spring Festival Gala on Saturday, fine-tuning the highly anticipated TV event amid the festive atmosphere of the traditional Chinese New Year.

The rehearsal seamlessly integrated innovative technologies with vibrant stage visuals, offering a first glimpse of the gala's overall impact under the theme "Galloping Steed, Onward Unstoppable.”

Inspired by traditional Chinese culture, the Year of the Horse gala incorporates zodiac themes that symbolize perseverance and progress. The production merges art and technology, using AI, AR, and XR to create immersive, blended-reality visuals. Horse-themed artistic installations shape a dynamic stage, while original songs and opera pieces convey the spirited ethos of the zodiac year.

Robots, which made their debut in last year's gala, will once again take the stage at the Spring Festival Gala, showcasing the country's technological advancements.

Known as "Chunwan" in Chinese, the gala has been broadcast live annually since 1983 and is regarded as a major cultural symbol for the Chinese New Year celebrations in China. This year's gala will air on Feb 16, the eve of the Chinese New Year.

The gala has been recognized by Guinness World Records as the most-watched annual television program worldwide. Just over a year ago, the Spring Festival itself was inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

CMG holds first rehearsal for 2026 Spring Festival Gala

CMG holds first rehearsal for 2026 Spring Festival Gala

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