China introduces advanced military aircraft at Paris Air Show

Source : http://www.wantchinatimes.com

China is introducing advanced military aircraft such as the FC-1 Xiaolong or JF-17 Thunder multirole fighter, the K-8 trainer, Z-9 helicopter and Wing Loong unmanned aerial vehicle to overseas markets during the 51st International Paris Air Show held between June 15-21, reports the state-run Global Times.

The Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) has successfully introduced Chinese-built aircraft to various nations. Contracts for more than 100 Thunder fighters, jointly developed by China and Pakistan, have been signed. The value of Chinese military drones, specifically the export-approved Wing Loong unmanned aerial vehicle — is expected to grow to US$2.3 billion by the year 2023. China has successfully introduced the K-8 to 12 countries in Asia, Africa and Latin America.

The Z-9 helicopter, developed based on the French-built Eurocopter AS365 Dauphin, currently has 40 overseas owners. China's supersonic trainer, the L-15 designed by the Hongdu Aviation Industry Corporation, was sold to Zambia and Venezuela. AVIC stated that it has sold 56 MA60 commercial aircraft to 18 foreign customers. China even signed a deal with an unnamed US airline for 20 19-seat Y-12 aircraft, said the report.

Beijing is using international events such as the Paris Air Show to expand the overseas market for its military and civilian aircraft, said the report. A representative for the AVIC said that the country is looking forward to new markets while solidifying existing customer bases. With more advanced platforms such as the Thunder, Wing Loong and K-8, the AVIC hopes to establish its own supply chain of military aircraft to compete against the US and Russia, said the report.