US-China tensions soar: PLA deploys J-16 bombers in all theatre commands

“Chinese old-generation military aircraft like the J-7 and J-8 are not enough to deal with the increasing security challenges around its periphery,” said Fu Qianshao, a retired PLA Air Force equipment specialist. “Aircraft replacement is not taking place just in the western border, as China needs more long-range advanced warplanes to deal with increasing provocations from the United States and its allies in the South and East China seas, where the PLA’s key strategic focuses are.” Western Theatre Command, which oversees border security along the contentious Himalayan border with India, was the first to receive a batch of J-16s. This…