‍China's "Warhawk" fighter jets soar, tearing through the vast skies. At around 11:30 a.m. on November 5, accompanied by the thunderous roar of engines, a formation of three J-10C jets from the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force's August 1st aerobatics team appeared over Zhuhai Jinwan Airport before gradually landing on the runway. The aerobatics team will perform at the upcoming 15th Airshow China in Zhuhai next week, marking its first public appearance at the event since upgrading to the J-10C jet.

The J-10C is a domestically developed supersonic multi-role fighter equipped with an advanced avionics system and various airborne weapons. Currently, only China, the United States, and Russia perform aerial demonstrations with domestically developed fourth-generation fighter jets.

Founded in 1962, the August 1st aerobatics team has operated seven different aircraft types over the years, including the J-5, J-6, J-7EB, J-10, and J-10C. The team's evolution reflects the PLA Air Force's remarkable journey from modest beginnings to a formidable force, showcasing the confidence, strength, and spirit of China's Air Force on the global stage.

The August 1st aerobatics team primarily undertakes missions such as national ceremonial escort flights, welcoming performances, and domestic and international airshow tours. In March 2023, the team officially transitioned to the domestically built J-10C for its aerial displays.

The upgraded J-10C aircraft, with superior performance, will enable the August 1st aerobatics team to deliver even more breathtaking demonstrations. Audiences can expect higher speeds, more extreme altitudes, greater maneuverability, and more innovative demonstrations—a spectacular visual feast that seamlessly blends technology and aesthetics.

According to Senior Colonel Xie Peng, spokesperson for the PLA Air Force, on November 11, during the adaptive training exercises for the airshow, the August 1st and Red Eagle aerobatics teams will commemorate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the PLA Air Force in a unique manner at Zhuhai Jinwan Airport.

Meanwhile, various other PLA Air Force aircrafts participating in the 15th Airshow China have also arrived in Zhuhai. The H-6K bomber landed at Zhuhai Jinwan Airport on November 3, alongside the J-16D and two J-16 fighters. On November 4, the YU-20 aerial tanker and the KJ-500A early warning aircraft also arrived in Zhuhai.

In addition, according to the latest announcement from the PLA Air Force, during the 15th Airshow China, the medium-sized stealth multi-role fighter J-35A will also have the opportunity to make an appearance.

Reporter | Dong Qianjun

Photo | Guan Mingrong

Editor | Ge Yuting, Wei Shen, James, Shen He

来源：GDToday