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China's rising political ambitions have been accompanied by a demonstration of military presence in its area of influence. The Chinese navy and its naval air arm are playing an increasing role in achieving this goal. This comprehensive directory provides an extensively illustrated, in-depth analysis and overview of the Chinese naval aviation branch

China’s economic development has been matched by rising political ambitions and the aim of returning the country to a central role in regional and global affairs. It is therefore considered vital for China to demonstrate military presence in its area of influence. Within the past decade, China’s military has undergone some of the most profound reforms and improvements since its establishment. The Chinese navy and its naval air arm are playing an increasingly important role in achieving these goals.

A 2016 ‘white paper’ called for a greater focus on the seas and clearly stated the requirement for China to establish itself as a major maritime power. Consequently, the navy is shifting its focus from the defense of offshore waters to ‘protection of the open seas’. The changes for the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) – and its aviation component – will probably be even more dramatic than those for the air force. As the PLAN creates a modern, capable ‘blue water’ force, its air arm will steadily increase its capabilities by introducing more modern multi-role systems and through the establishment of an indigenous carrier force.

From the author of the highly acclaimed Modern Chinese Warplanes and Flashpoint China books, this uniquely compact yet comprehensive directory provides an extensively illustrated, in-depth analysis of modern Chinese naval air power.

It is organized in four parts:

• The most important military aircraft and their weapons found in People’s Liberation Naval Air Force service today
• Aircraft markings and serial number systems
• Recent modernization efforts and structural reforms
• Orders of battle for the PLANAF

Contents Description

This soft cover publication is printed on heavyweight paper with a glossy finish. It is full color throughout, with images of various aircraft on each page, along with maps and charts. The pictures are clear while a few are postage stamp size. Several images are noted as "rare". While several of the aircraft is based on current Russian models, several are indigenous design and manufacture.

Overall it is an interesting and informative read. China is a growing giant in Asia, with the potential to challenge other world powers in that region. The recent efforts to modernize the naval arm of the PLA is most impressive with the addition of sleek and sophisticated aircraft and ships. For the scale modeler, the images and information contained within the pages will serve as an appetizer of sorts. There are a few kits of modern Chinese aircraft in the market for those modelers so interested. The images contained therein are well worth the cost of the publication.

Conclusion

I enjoyed reading this publication as it offered current information on the makeup and structure of the modern Chinese Naval Air Force and their aircraft. There is a stunning image of the carrier Liaoning on page 53.

I recommend this publication for those interested in modern China aircraft. There is certainly room for additional research for the interested scale modelers based on the aircraft listed but not shown. Thank you to Casement Publications and to IPMS/USA for the opportunity to review this publication.