— The latest prototype, identified as TC-OZB3, has been observed reaching full engine power on the ground, with the afterburner activated.

— The afterburner system is designed to provide sudden increases in thrust for high maneuverability and supersonic speeds.

— The UAE and China began their second Falcon Shield joint air exercise on July 10, 2024, in Xinjiang province at Hotan Airport.

— The UAE deployed at least six Dassault Mirage 2000-9DAD/EAD fighter ground-attack aircraft, supported by an Airbus MRTT tanker/transport aircraft.

— Two Boeing C-17A Globemaster heavy transports were also observed during the 2023 exercise, likely for transporting equipment and personnel.

— The proximity of the UAE’s Mirage 2000s to PLAAF aircraft at Hotan Airport raises concerns about Chinese access to Western military aircraft.

— This type of aircraft is also operated by the Taiwanese air force, making familiarization with its capabilities valuable to the PLAAF.

— The exercises provide China with opportunities to examine the performance of Western aircraft, radar, and missile systems, potentially through dissimilar air-combat training.