Chinese pilots in Russia for air force competition

Chinese air force refuels three Su-30 fighters at an airport in Russia, July 20, 2014. [Photo/Xinhua]

BEIJING - Pilots from China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force have arrived in Russia for the Aviadarts-2014 air force competition.

The event, slated from July 22 to July 28, will see Chinese pilots fly three Su-30 fighters and compete with their international counterparts over flying abilities and air-to-surface combat skills among other areas.

Yu Hejie, a commanding officer with the PLA Air Force, said China's participation in the event showcases the mutual strategic trust and pragmatic cooperation between Chinese and Russian militaries.

Shen Jinke, PLA Air Force spokesman, also said that the force wishes to enhance exchanges with pilots from other countries through participation in the competition.

He added that military cooperation between China and Russia would not target any third party.