Technology
China intends to reveal drones and a moon rocket at the air show.
A military drone whose maker claims it can cruise for 20 hours at 15,000 meters (50,000 feet) was among the Chinese aircraft, missiles, and other weaponry equipment displayed for the first time in public Tuesday at the start of the country's largest air show.
According to an official publication, the Chinese space program intended to showcase a rocket for crewed space flight capable of transporting a 25-ton cargo to lunar orbit during the 13th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition. The event, which continues through Sunday, was originally scheduled for late 2020 but was pushed back owing to the coronavirus epidemic.As it pursues claims to disputed seas and other territories, the governing Communist Party is investing billions of dollars into creating fighter planes, stealth technology, drones, and other gear for its military branch, the People's Liberation Army.
According to its maker, the China Academy of Aerospace Science, a subsidiary of China Aerospace Science and Technology Corp., the CH-6 drone, powered by two turbofan engines, can carry early warning radar, air-to-ground missiles, and other weaponry.
The governing party's publication, Global Times, stated that the CH-6 is intended for "high-end armaments and dual-use markets," but did not specify which nations the business may try to sell it to.According to the Global Times, the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology intended to showcase a “next-generation manned carrier rocket and a heavy-lift launch vehicle.” The 2,000-ton, three-stage rocket would "assist China's human lunar expeditions," according to the statement.
According to the official China News Service, the PLA air force also intended to exhibit a J-16D electronic warfare jet for the first time during the air show.
For the first time, China Aerospace Science & Technology Corp. showcased a slew of new missiles.
The China Academy of Aerospace Science also intended to display the CH-817, a mini-attack drone. According to the company, the 800-gram (28-ounce) drone may be operated by soldiers or deployed from a larger drone.
