China's first state aviation high-tech base broke ground Thursday in Xi'an, capital of northwest China's Shaanxi Province.

Xi'an Yanliang State Aviation High-tech Industry Base was authorized by the State Development and Reform Commission in August 2004. The base is expected to develop aviation technology, train professionals, produce equipment and provide aviation services.

It will focus on aircraft manufacturing and refit aircraft engines and develop new materials, according to the construction layout.

Located at Xi'an, the base is expected to bring along the high-tech industry in northwest China's Shaanxi Province and other provinces in less developed northwestern China.

Covering an area of about 40 square kilometers, the base is divided into four parts: an aircraft development and manufacturing area, an aircraft professional training area, an area for other relevant industries and an area for life and business.

(Xinhua News Agency March 25, 2005)