BEIJING — An early warning and command aircraft echelon was reviewed on Oct 1 in a massive military parade to mark the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.

The echelon, consisting of 15 aircraft in total, was led by the KJ-500 and KJ-200 early warning aircraft and the Y-8 command and communication aircraft, each convoyed by four J-11B fighter jets.

China's early warning aircraft made debut during the National Day parade in 2009.

In recent years, the Chinese military has stepped up the construction of its early warning and command system, which has evolved from the role of information guarantee to a main battle force, from operations in inland areas and near seas to operations on plateau and in far seas.