China greenlights production of the world's largest amphibious aircraft

China has initiated mass production of the AG600 amphibious aircraft, following its certification by the Civil Aviation Administration of China. This significant development was made public by state broadcaster CCTV on a Wednesday. The AG600, also known as 'Kunlong', is designed for various emergency response tasks, including marine rescues and firefighting. Its development began in September 2009, and since then, the aircraft has undergone extensive testing, including a successful production test flight in May 2025. The aircraft can carry 50 people and scoop up 12 metric tonnes of water for firefighting, showcasing its capabilities in emergency scenarios. The AG600's production approval represents a strategic move by China to advance its military and civil aviation capabilities. As part of its modernization efforts, the Chinese government has emphasized the need for a robust domestic aviation manufacturing sector. The state-owned Aviation Industry Corporation of China views this certification as a milestone in establishing a 'high-end and standardized' aviation manufacturing framework, which is vital for enhancing the country’s independent civil aviation ecosystem. Furthermore, the AG600 is expected to improve the efficiency and responsiveness of emergency management in the country, particularly in forest and grassland fire control. Officials from the Jilin provincial department of emergency management reported the successful aerial fire suppression trials conducted using the AG600, which were deemed beneficial for combating fires in challenging terrains. The aircraft's features such as stable takeoff and landing in water, alongside its ability to operate in low-altitude conditions, underline its adaptability for various disaster response scenarios. The implications of this production go beyond just enhancing domestic capabilities; it places China in competition with other nations that already possess advanced amphibious aircraft. The AG600's successful development and upcoming mass production signify China's escalating ambitions in the global aviation sector. This aircraft not only represents advancements in technology but also reinforces China's commitment to self-sufficiency in critical areas of military and civil emergency response. As the AG600 enters the market, it is likely to foster a new era of aviation manufacturing and emergency management in the country.