China recently introduced a new Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft designed to enhance the country’s threat detection capabilities.
Named the KJ-3000, the aircraft is based on Beijing’s indigenous Y-20 strategic transport platform and features four high-powered engines.
It also appears to have two rotating active electronically scanned array radars for comprehensive coverage of its surroundings.
According to Chinese news outlets, the KJ-3000 will improve the surveillance capabilities of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), particularly in the contested South China Sea and the western Pacific.
It is also seen as a major upgrade over China’s current AEW&C fleet, which includes the older KJ-500 and KJ-2000 aircraft.
The KJ-3000 is believed to still be in the early stages of flight testing.
A Significant Upgrade
According to FlightGlobal, the KJ-3000 is powered by four Shenyang WS-20 high-bypass turbofan engines, providing improved efficiency over previous models.
It also features an advanced air-to-air refueling probe, extending its operational range.
With advanced sensors and processing systems, the KJ-3000 is reportedly capable of identifying challenging targets in complex combat environments.
Race for Aerial Dominance
China is engaged in an intensifying rivalry with the US for aerial superiority, with both nations investing heavily in the development of advanced airborne systems.
Last month, Beijing showcased its sixth-generation fighter aircraft, allegedly featuring advanced stealth capabilities.
It also flaunted a new unmanned aerial system designed to work in tandem with fighter jets, mirroring the US “loyal wingman” concept.
In contrast, the US has announced the development of its first sixth-generation fighter aircraft, set for deployment in the 2030s
It also celebrated the successful inaugural flight of its B-21 Raider, the first new bomber in the US Air Force fleet in over three decades.
