Earlier this week, at an airport on the eastern Chinese mainland, the PLA Eastern Theater Command's J-16 fighter jets roared down the runway for their first flight training of 2026. With precision and power, these twin-engine warbirds sliced through a crisp winter sky, marking a dynamic start to the new year's drills. ✈️
Above the clouds, pilots split into red and blue forces, continuously adapting tactics in intense air combat exercises. From high-speed dogfights to simulated missile engagements, the training pushed crews to sharpen skills and teamwork. 🎯
Equipped with advanced avionics and potent weaponry, the J-16 stands out in the PLA's modernized fleet. This January exercise underscores ongoing efforts to boost aerial readiness and strategic coordination across theater commands. For military aviation fans and curious observers alike, 2026 is already taking off with a bang! 🚀
Reference(s):
China's J-16 fighter jets launch first flight training of 2026
cgtn.com
