Analysts say the air show, where China’s latest drones and missiles were also on display, is intended as a show of force to China’s adversaries, demonstrating its rapidly growing tech capabilities.
Russia’s Su-57 stealth fighter is also on display at the air show, reflecting the growing desire for Beijing and Moscow to establish closer military-industrial ties.
The event coincided with Mr Shoigu’s meeting for security talks with Wang Yi, Chinese foreign minister, in Beijing.
During the meeting, Mr Shoigu stressed the deep bond China and Russia have established and the need for the two major powers to counter “containment” by the US and its allies.