New transport aircraft to aid military drive

The Ministry of National Defense confirmed on Thursday that a large transport aircraft is being developed as part of the military's modernization drive.

The long-range aircraft, the Y-20, will improve the military's air transportation, according to ministry spokesman Yang Yujun, who spoke to reporters at a news briefing in Beijing.

The move is not only in line with the military's modernization, but also serves the purposes of providing disaster relief and assistance in emergency situations.