China unveils new aircraft at air show

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SHANGHAI, Nov. 21 (UPI) -- Chinese government officials are reportedly very pleased with the response to its recent aviation exhibition.

The ninth China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition, which ended Sunday in Zhuhai, drew more than 100 foreign delegations of government and military officials.

People's Liberation Army Air Force publicity officer Shen Jinke said, "It showcased the image of the Chinese air force and enhanced the spirit and morale of the army," The Shanghai Daily reported Wednesday.

One of the stars of the exhibition was China's newly unveiled attack helicopter, the WZ-10. The WZ-10, built by Changhe Aircraft Industries Corp., is designed primarily for anti-tank missions but is believed to have a secondary air-to-air capability as well.

Designed by CAIC Designer Wu Ximing, the WZ-10 made its maiden flight in April 2003 but was only introduced into the Chinese army in December 2010. Estimates are that the army has a fleet of more than 200 WZ-10s.