The Changchun Air Show, part of the 2023 Air Force Open Day, was held on July 26th, 2023, at the Changchun Airfield. A variety of military aircraft took to the skies, showcasing the results of practical military training and construction development of the Air Force.
One of the highlights was the domestically produced large-scale aerial refueling aircraft Y-20 making an appearance alongside the J-20 and J-16 fighters, forming an aerial refueling formation for the first time. The display of the formation required pilots to work closely together, continuously correcting the posture of the fighter jets.
Military expert Wang Mingzhi explained that this was the first complete presentation of the “20 series”, including Y-20, J-20, and Z-20. The Y-20, in particular, represents a resource guarantee, while J-20 represents stealth air dominance, and J-16 can execute both air dominance and ground attack tasks. These three, combined, form a new air combat system, where with the support of Y-20, the J-20 can open an air passage, and the J-16 can use this passage to complete various combat missions.
The Y-20 is a new generation of aerial refueling equipment independently developed and produced in China, significantly enhancing the air force’s long-distance mobility and sustained combat capabilities. When forming a formation with the J-20 and J-16, it becomes a true “force multiplier.”
Another standout moment was the first-time release of flare decoys by the Y-20, designed to test its capabilities. The release of infrared decoys is intended to deceive enemy infrared-guided air-to-air missiles, providing safety for the Y-20 platform.
The Air Force’s “August 1st” Aerobatic Team, newly equipped with domestically produced J-10C performance aircraft, also made an impressive appearance. Since its establishment 61 years ago, the “August 1st” Aerobatic Team has been equipped with seven different aircraft models, including the J-5, J-6, JJ-5, J-7EB, J-7GB, J-10, and J-10C.
Wang Mingzhi stated that the “August 1st” Aerobatic Team represents the country in the sky and the switch to an advanced third-generation fighter jet like the J-10C has significant meaning. The J-10C is one of the main models currently used by the air force in combat.
The formation of four J-20s was particularly eye-catching. Wang Mingzhi pointed out that the appearance of the J-20 formation was very impressive, with the four aircraft maintaining a small distance and altitude difference, which requires excellent cooperation between the pilots.
The grey painted, stealth shaped J-20s with canard configuration appeared low over Changchun, quickly adjusted to form a diamond formation, and completed a high degree of circling, demonstrating the excellent performance of the J-20 fighter jet and the superior skills of the pilots.
An Air Force pilot, Shi Yunjia, added that every move is derived from practical combat, such as a scissor-like action similar to close combat in air combat. One of the more spectacular moves was a four-machine cross, which would cross at a speed difference of nearly 1500 km in front of the audience, creating a very shocking visual effect.
In conclusion, the Changchun Air Show and the latest appearance of the J-20 brought a range of new demonstrations and features, giving the public a chance to appreciate the power and confidence of the Chinese Air Force.