Chinese Fighter Jets take Centre Stage at Singapore Airshow
China’s latest military aviation platforms drew attention at the Singapore Airshow this week, with the J-35A stealth fighter and J-10CE among the aircraft showcased as the biennial event opened at Changi Exhibition Centre.
At the indoor exhibition hall, China’s state-owned Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) displayed scale models of several aircraft, including the scale model J-35A stealth fighter, J-10CE and JF-17 fighter jets, the L-15 advanced trainer, Y-20 transport aircraft, Z-20 utility helicopter and Wing Loong drone series. The J-35A model was placed at the centre of the AVIC booth.
According to Chinese aviation experts cited by Chinese media, the J-35A is China’s second fifth-generation stealth fighter, developed after the J-20. The aircraft is designed with a balance of performance, reliability, maintainability and cost, making it attractive to potential overseas buyers.
Advanced fourth-generation fighters such as the J-10CE and JF-17 were also highlighted as export-oriented platforms, particularly for countries that do not require fifth-generation stealth capabilities.
J-10C Debut Flight Marks Bayi Aerobatic Team’s Return
The Singapore Airshow also marked the return of the People’s Liberation Army Air Force’s Bayi Aerobatic Team after a six-year absence, with the team performing its first flight display in Singapore using J-10C fighter jets.
Footage from validation flights showed six J-10C aircraft flying in ultra-tight formations over the coast near Changi Airport, trailing red, yellow and white smoke at low altitude. The display was described by organisers as featuring the longest smoke sequences among participating teams.
“This will be our debut in Singapore after we’ve upgraded to J-10C fighters,” said Bayi Aerobatic Team member Luo Jie. “We have undergone significant changes in personnel, equipment, and operational procedures. This time it is an entirely new lineup.”
An airshow organiser added: “Especially for Bayi [Aerobatic Team], they are the most colorful, with the longest smoke sequences in the show. So, I’m looking forward to seeing everybody putting their utmost effort into the show.”
Seven J-10 aircraft arrived in Singapore ahead of the event, supported by a YY-20A tanker aircraft that enabled in-flight refuelling during the long-distance journey.
Defence Marketing Amid wider International Participation
Beyond China’s display, the Singapore Airshow features more than 1,000 companies from 50 countries and regions, reflecting growing regional interest in defence and aerospace amid global uncertainty.
Aerobatic teams from Singapore, Australia and Indonesia also conducted validation flights ahead of the show. Indonesia has publicly indicated it is considering the J-10 fighter jet, while Japan’s Acquisition, Technology and Logistics Agency set up a booth to promote Japanese defence technologies overseas.
Drones and artificial intelligence systems were another major focus, with companies reporting interest from officials across Southeast Asia.
About Singapore Airshow
Singapore Airshow is one of the world’s most influential international aerospace and defence exhibitions, providing a platform for stakeholders to forge strategic alliances and collaborate to shape the future of the global aviation industry.
Held biennially since 2008, the event brings together leading industry players, government and military leaders through exhibitions, strategic forums and co-located events to exchange ideas and advance the global aerospace and defence sector.
Watch videos here:
@malaysiachinainsight Roaring China’s J-10 Fighter Jet’s This Maneuver Leaves Everybody Stunned At Singapore Airshow #china #chinanews #singapore #airshow #airshow2026 Credit: Times Now
♬ original sound – MalaysiaChinaInsight – MalaysiaChinaInsight
@cgtneurope Seven J-10 fighter jets from the PLA Air Force’s Bayi Aerobatic Team arrived at Singapore’s Changi Airport on Tuesday, ahead of the 10th Singapore Airshow running from Feb. 3–8. The jets were supported by a YY-20A tanker aircraft, enabling in-flight refuelling during the journey. #SingaporeAirshow #J10 #BayiAerobaticTeam #Airshow2026
More from Wake Up Singapore:-
China’s First Muslim-Friendly Cruise Sets Sail From Malaysia—And It’s 100% Halal
China’s ‘Ghost Logistics Centers’ Run 24/7 in Complete Darkness—No Humans Needed
China’s Online Influencer Rules: Verified Professional Qualification Required for Internet Advice
If you have a story or a tip-off, email admin@wakeup.sg or get in touch via Whatsapp at 8882 5913.
Interested in advertising on our media channels? Reach out to us at admin@wakeup.sg!
Since you have made it to the end of the article, follow Wake Up Singapore on Telegram and X!
Wake Up Singapore is a volunteer-run site that covers alternative views in Singapore. If you want to volunteer with us, sign up here!
