Broad Trends in Chinese Air Force and Missile Modernization
Abstract
How would you characterize PLA Air Force modernization over the past five years? Has it accelerated during this time? PLA Air Force (PLAAF) modernization is progressing at a steady pace. While, we would not characterize the modernization as accelerated, the totality of PLAAF modernization is significant. The goal of PLAAF modernization is to improve capability to conduct offensive and defensive operations such as strike, air and missile defense, power projection, and early warning and reconnaissance. The key areas of emphasis include increased introduction of 4th generation multirole aircraft and the new H-6K bomber to increase PLAAF strike capabilities, as well as developing 5th generation fighters. To meet reconnaissance and early warning goals the PLAAF has fielded several Airborne Early Warning (AEW), Electronic Warfare, and command-and-control systems, such as the KJ2000 MAINRING and have fielded several Unmanned Air Vehicles (UAVs). To address their power projection deficiency, they have purchased a limited number of used IL-76 from Russian and are developing the Y20 heavy lift transport aircraft, and the Y9 medium-lift transport. We should not take a symmetric view of PLAAF modernization in which we directly compare their developments to ours. We believe the Chinese are not trying to match the U.S. system vs. system, but are pursuing more of a system-of-systems approach that exploits what they perceive to be adversary weaknesses or exploitable vulnerabilities.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 30, 2014
- Accession Number
- ADA593473
Entities
People
- Lee Fuell
Organizations
- National Air and Space Intelligence Center