2010-07-21 16:30

"The US never sells its latest generation of aircraft, or sell critical technologies," he said. In contrast, "China sells packages", not just the aircraft, but also technology and expertise - such as production licenses for domestic assembly, technical assistance and other after-sales support.

Almost all Chinese aircraft exports go to less developed countries, like Egypt, Venezuela and Myanmar. And Pakistan, China's "all-weathered friend", is the biggest recipient of Chinese planes.

The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) received its first two JF-17 Thunder fighters from China in July 2007. Last year, the PAF started its own assembly line, which saw the first aircraft roll out in November.

In February, the PAF activated its first JF-17 squadron, with 14 aircraft in service and another 24 to be delivered from the initial contract batch. Pakistan's total requirement for this type of single-engine plane is reported to be as high as 250.

Li said the JF-17 is an "excellent aircraft", available at a cheap price (about $15 million each), with a good avionics system and good radar. "It is a successful product of a successful partnership Chinese design really shines."

Significantly, the plane fits into Islamabad's needs, as "countries like Pakistan or Egypt don't need F-22s", Li added.

"If China decides to export its newer aircraft such as the J-11B and J-10, then it will make a significant impact on the world arms market, by offering attractive and cost effective alternatives to Western and Russian planes."

Long March

Also at the show, the China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology presented China's next-generation heavy-duty launch vehicle, Long March-5, slated to take off in 2014.

The Long March-5 launch vehicle is currently China's largest, designed for transporting heavyweight satellites and space stations. It has entered the test stage.