China has already adapted various western aviation technologies. (Photo : www.english.cri.cn)
State-run Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) is planning on further cooperation with western firms through strategic meetings designed to foster closer ties and tackle key issues.
Groups such as Honeywell Aerospace from the U.S. and France's Thales group are already in discussions with AVIC regarding deeper interactions.
After visiting AVIC's China Aeronautical Radio Electronic Research Institute in Shanghai last July 31, Gil Michielin, vice president of Thales Group, stated that there is a possibility of establishing a joint venture with his Chinese counterparts in the future.
Michielin represents one of the major aviation and defense contractors employed by the French government and military.
Aside from Thales Group, Honeywell Aerospace also sent its president and CEO, Tim Mahoney, to visit the AVIC offices.
Mahoney met with Zhang Xingguo, company vice president of AVIC, and talked about future collaboration between their two organizations in the field of avionics, engines, machinery, helicopters and aircraft.
Furthermore, AVIC officials are optimistic with establishing bilateral committees with companies to provide a framework for collaboration across a range of aerospace development and manufacturing disciplines.
China has already adapted various western aviation technologies, such as the one it introduced to the engine and avionics systems of China's Hongdu JL-8 trainers, with equipment purchased from Honeywell Aerospace.
The development comes amid recent tensions between China and rival claimants in the maritime region, and observers expect it to play a key role in China's effort to successfully implement its Air Defense Identification Zone over disputed regions in the East China Sea.
