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Air show marks PLA Air Force's 60th Anniversary

2009-11-15 12:30 BJT

Special Report: PLA Air Force 60-Year Anniversary |

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Slideshow: Air show to celebrate PLA Air Force 60th Anniversary

China's People's Liberation Army's Air Force has staged an air show in Beijing. The Air Force's aerobatic team and paratroopers put on a dazzling aerial display amid clear skies. CCTV reporter takes a look at the much-anticipated event marking the 60th anniversary of the founding of the PLA Air Force.

The PLA Air Force displayed an array of spectacular maneuvers in a showcase of China's defensive might.

Sunday's air show was conducted by two types of fighter jets - the J-7 and J-10.

The air show was also a farewell for six J-7GB fighter jets, which are due to be retired.

J-7 fighter jets have been a part of the PLA air force's arsenal for 15 years. Third generation J-7's will replace the retiring fleet.

Most of the pilots performing on Sunday participated in the fly-over during the National Day parade on October the 1st.

The pilots have all been undergoing rigorous training over the past three months, especially for those flying the newly-equipped J-10s.

Four J-10s made their aerobatic debut at the air show.

The domestically-produced jets are products of China's drive towards innovation.