Zhang Yanzhong has presented a blueprint to build a fully self-sufficient supply chain for large domestic passenger jets in China [1, 2].
The plan aims to protect the Chinese aviation sector from foreign sanctions that could halt the production or maintenance of commercial aircraft. By removing reliance on international parts, China seeks to ensure its aviation industry remains operational regardless of geopolitical tensions.
Zhang is a senior academician at the Chinese Academy of Engineering and previously served as the chief scientist of the Aviation Industry Corporation of China [1, 2]. His proposal focuses on creating a domestic ecosystem capable of producing all necessary components for large-scale passenger planes internally.
This strategic shift comes as a response to the vulnerability of current aircraft manufacturing, which relies heavily on Western technology and parts. The move toward total self-reliance is intended to mitigate the risk of a complete supply chain collapse if trade relations deteriorate further.
"There is a very real risk that the country could be cut off entirely from components made in the West," Zhang said [1].
The blueprint outlines the necessary steps to transition from an import-dependent model to a domestic-first approach. This involves developing new materials, and engineering processes within the People's Republic of China to match the specifications of global aviation standards [1, 2].
Developing such a comprehensive supply chain requires significant investment in research and development. The goal is to create a system where the design, manufacturing, and sourcing of aircraft parts are all handled by domestic entities, effectively insulating the industry from external political pressure [1, 2].
“"There is a very real risk that the country could be cut off entirely from components made in the West,"”
This proposal signals a broader Chinese strategic pivot toward 'de-risking' its critical infrastructure from Western influence. If implemented, a sanction-proof aviation supply chain would reduce the effectiveness of economic levers used by the U.S. and its allies, while potentially accelerating the development of a domestic competitor to Boeing and Airbus.
