A Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Xinjiang Military Command brigade recently carried out high-difficulty flight training tailored to the seasonal weather conditions to explore tactical methods and refine pilots' combat skills in complex environments.
The training aims to enhance the troops' ability to operate in all weather conditions and improve their overall combat readiness.
Several helicopters hovered in sequence for inspection at an airport located on the northern slopes of the Tianshan Mountains, in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. The pilots skillfully operated the controls. As the rotor blades whipped up snow, the aircraft ascended one after another, heading toward their designated target airspace.
"In snowy weather, with ground references becoming unclear, pilots must maintain a high concentration level and precise control. Particularly during formation flying, where visibility is obstructed, maintaining the formation becomes more challenging and requires seamless coordination and precise communication among the crew members," said Jie Yongxiang, an officer with the brigade.
The training was further complicated by snowfall, which caused turbulence in the air. Helicopters experienced noticeable bumps, and pilots kept their eyes fixed on the instrument data, constantly adjusting their flight posture.
With real-time weather reports from the ground, they completed a series of tactical maneuvers, including low-altitude penetration, simulated attacks, and formation flying.
"On the battlefield, we can encounter various harsh weather conditions at any time, especially the slippery runways and reduced visibility caused by snow, which are real factors affecting combat operations. Therefore, only by actively adapting to and overcoming these challenges in daily training can we ensure that our troops can operate in all weather conditions during wartime," said Officer Qiao Qingyue.
After completing the flight, the crews worked closely together, following instructions through communication channels, and landed one by one through the snowstorm.
The training was smooth and efficient, from pre-flight preparations and executing aerial tactical maneuvers to post-landing support coordination. It effectively tested the pilots' technical skills and equipment performance throughout the entire process.
This training reflected the brigade's commitment to preparing for all-weather operations, ensuring its personnel can maintain combat effectiveness even under challenging environmental conditions.
Xinjiang Military Command conducts flight training in harsh winter conditions
