A group of Y-20 transport aircraft of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force recently carried out intensive multi-aircraft formation and long-range training in complex weather conditions and unfamiliar airspace.

The training highlighted system coordination, autonomous navigation and on-the-spot decision-making, comprehensively honing the strategic delivery and long-range air mobility capabilities of large transport aircraft units in unfamiliar battlefield environments.

During a session that started at noon in southwest China, multiple Y-20s smoothly rolled out onto the tarmac and assembled into a formation after taking off, heading toward designated target airspace.

Unlike routine training operations, this exercise was conducted with complex meteorological challenges, unfamiliar routes and limited ground support information. Throughout the mission, crews relied entirely on onboard advanced systems and autonomous judgment to complete their tasks.

The training not only tested operational skills but also evaluated the crews' ability to process multifaceted information, anticipate risks and execute coordinated decisions.

During the exercise, mission command simulated multiple contingencies including satellite navigation jamming, severe turbulence and sudden weather changes. In response, the crews maintained composure, sharing real-time information via data links, recalibrating navigation plans, and adjusting formation and flight paths to accomplish tactical maneuvers and emergency recovery procedures.

As night fell, the formation completed all training objectives and returned safely to base. The crew conducted detailed debriefings, analyzed flight data and held in-depth discussions on aspects such as collaborative connection and information integration.

Designed and manufactured by the state-owned Aviation Industry Corporation of China, the Y-20 has a maximum takeoff weight of around 200 tonnes. It made its maiden flight on January 26, 2013, and joined China's air force on July 6, 2016.

The Y-20 is officially codenamed "Kunpeng," after a giant mythical bird that could fly vast distances.