J-20 maiden flight: I'm a believer

Preparations had been taking place all morning: chairs set out for VIPs, tea served, and extra tight security around the airfield perimeter. A quick check revealed that in Chinese astrological terms today is good day for big things: signing contracts, moving house, commencing renovations, and launching super fighters.

Then, after lunch, there were reports of the twenty minute flight, a few low level passes above the crowd, a landing, and the pilot waving from the cockpit. 

The photos and ecstatic postings convinced me: I'm a believer.

"Viva to my motherland!" was one Twitter post that struck me. "It is a glorious day for our country!" said another. 

Glorious day possibly, but fascinating day certainly.

The manner in which this news first appeared (grainy, amateur photos) and the timing (US defence secretary's visit) intrigue me deeply. Perhaps all this is not so much about impressing the United States, but playing to the home crowd during Gate's visit.

Whatever China's intention, it has put on a heck of a show.