15.03.2026 13:32
The Northern Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army Air Force released images of moments when ground targets were hit during an attack exercise with J-16 fighter jets. Experts assess that such exercises conducted by the Chinese Air Force aim to both enhance the combat readiness of pilots and send a deterrent message to rivals in the region.
The People's Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force of the Northern Command of China has reported that J-16 fighter jets conducted ground target attack training as part of a military exercise. In the footage shared by the Chinese military, it was observed that the fighter jets carried out precision attack missions against designated targets.
STRUCK GROUND TARGETS ONE BY ONE
The released video highlights multiple J-16 fighter jets taking off from military air bases and then flying at low altitude towards the target area. The footage shows moments when pilots transitioned to attack positions, dropping munitions on target coordinates, and hitting ground targets. It is noted that the munitions used during the exercise struck the targets with high precision, and the moments of explosions were also captured in the footage.
The Chinese military stated that the exercise was organized to enhance the operational capability of the air force, increase pilots' preparedness for real combat scenarios, and test the coordinated attack capacity against ground targets.
J-16 IS ONE OF CHINA'S MOST POWERFUL FIGHTER JETS
The J-16 fighter jets used in the exercise are known as one of the most modern multi-role fighter jets developed by China. Based on the Russian-made Su-30 platform, the J-16 stands out with its long range, high payload capacity, and advanced radar systems. The aircraft can be used not only for air superiority missions but also for ground attack and electronic warfare missions.
Experts indicate that the J-16 significantly enhances the Chinese air force's strike capability against ground targets, particularly due to its capacity to carry precision-guided munitions.
TENSIONS IN THE REGION ARE RISING
It is noteworthy that the Chinese military has been conducting such exercises more frequently, especially during a period of increased military tension in the Taiwan Strait and East Asia. The Beijing administration showcases its military power through air and naval exercises around Taiwan, while the military activities of the U.S. and its allies in the region are also cited as factors that escalate tensions.
Experts assess that these types of exercises conducted by the Chinese air force aim to both enhance pilots' combat readiness and send a deterrent message to regional competitors.