Due to the pilots' good service record, the bomber unit has been awarded the honorary title of "Role Model of the Times" by the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China Central Committee.

The department said in a news release last week that members of the unit have followed the Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era and the Xi Jinping Thought on Strengthening the Military, adhering to the Party's guidance and military strategies.

The unit always focuses on honing its pilots' combat skills and improving their joint operation capability, and has developed a series of new tactics.

In recent years, bombers from the unit have taken part in training and exercises over the South China Sea and around Taiwan.

Established in 2014 by the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee, "Role Model of the Times" is one of the highest honors in China and is conferred to individuals and units each year.