Background
The aircraft involved was a PRC-produced Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) plane, one of four that were part of the PRC's efforts to expand its air defences. The exact model of aircraft involved was never officially identified, although it is believed to have been a KJ-200. The aircraft had been developed in 2002, and have been undergoing extensive tests since then.
The plane was carrying thirty-five electronics and avionics technicians, as well as five crewmembers. It is believed by aviation experts that the large number of people on board the aircraft indicated that some form of test was being conducted. Carrying such a large number of people prevented the plane from transmitting real time data back to the ground, which could be compromised by foreign intelligence services.
Read more about this topic: 2006 People's Liberation Army Air Force KJ-200 Crash
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