Video | The J-20's First Public Debut 10th Anniversary: A Look Back at the Highlights of the Weilang!
On November 1, 2016, at the 11th China Airshow, China's self-developed new generation stealth fighter jet, the J-20, made its first appearance in the public eye, with a stunning one-minute flight demonstration that amazed the audience. Ten years of hard work and sharpening the sword, the mighty dragon spreads its wings in the vast sky. From its initial glimpse to being equipped in the military, training in the sea and sky, and continuously enriching its family lineage while exploring new directions in intelligent aerial combat, each milestone etched in the blue sky fully records the J-20's journey from a research prototype to the Air Force's main battle spear.
November 1, 2016: The J-20 made its first public appearance at the 11th China Airshow;
July 30, 2017: The J-20 made its first appearance in a combat posture, celebrating the 90th anniversary of the founding of the army;
May 9, 2018: The J-20 conducted realistic military training in maritime operations for the first time;
October 1, 2019: The J-20 appeared in formation with five aircraft for the first time during the 70th anniversary National Day parade;
July 1, 2021: The J-20 appeared in three formations of 15 aircraft, celebrating the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China;
September 28, 2021: The J-20 was publicly displayed for the first time after being equipped with the "Chinese heart";
September 16, 2022: The J-20 executed the mission of welcoming the remains of the Volunteer Army martyrs back to the country;
November 8, 2022: The J-20 had its first ground static display;
July 26, 2023: The J-20 conducted a maneuver flight demonstration in a formation of four aircraft for the first time;
November 12, 2024: The J-20S dual-seat variant made its public debut, showcasing the future aerial combat potential of manned-unmanned collaboration;
September 3, 2025: The J-20, J-20A, and J-20S appeared together at the "September 3" parade.
The J-20 stealth fighter jet was publicly showcased for the first time on November 1, 2016, at the 11th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition. Over the years, it has participated in significant military events, demonstrating its evolution and operational capabilities within the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF). The J-20 continues to represent advancements in China's military aviation technology.
- The J-20 was first publicly displayed on November 1, 2016, at the 11th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition.
- The J-20 has participated in multiple significant military events, including the 90th anniversary of the PLA and the 100th anniversary of the Communist Party of China.
- The J-20 has evolved from a prototype to a mainstay of the PLAAF, showcasing advancements in stealth and combat capabilities.