The Zhuhai 2016 Airshow has massive displays on airplanes, drones and missiles, but there was still a very significant ground component. The format gives international observers a new look a state of the art – and sometimes unconventional – Chinese ground equipment.

VT-5 light tank is one of the few dedicated post Cold War light tanks in the world and perhaps the most notable new military vehicle at Zhuhai 2016; The VT-5 is the export version of the new ZTQ light tank used by the PLA in mountainous areas like Tibet. Built by Norinco, the tank weighs between 33-36 tons (depending on adding additional protection like side armor), has a sophisticated digital fire and control system has a 105mm cannon suitable for dealing with most Cold War era main battle tanks. The VT-5 could be very popular with militaries in Africa, Latin America, the Middle East and Southeast Asia looking for a modern light tank with a light operational footprint.