China says 2 pilots died in aircraft carrier tests

Two Chinese test pilots were killed during development of the country’s first aircraft carrier fighter wing, state media said.

President Xi Jinping had signed an order awarding honorary titles to all pilots in the first squadron to conduct take off and landing tests aboard the Liaoning,Xinhua reported.

“Two test pilots of the squadron sacrificed their lives during the tests,” the report said. No details were given.

The Liaoning is still conducting sea trials and Chinese defence officials haven’t said when, or even if, it will receive its full complement of aircraft.