On 25 February 2025, alarm bells rang across Washington’s defence circles as reports surfaced of China’s advanced KJ-3000 airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft once again flying through its airspace. This news was shared on the social media platform X, reigniting debates about Beijing’s rapid military modernization and its implications for U.S. air dominance in the Asia-Pacific. Interestingly, this aircraft’s initial appearance in December 2024 coincided with the first public sighting of China’s J-20 stealth fighter, yet the KJ-3000 received almost no attention.
Images Sourced From: HenriKenhmann, QQ
1 What is the KJ-3000?
Unveiled in an unexpected maiden flight on 26 December 2024, the KJ-3000 is no typical aircraft. Constructed on the sturdy framework of China’s Y-20B strategic aircraft, the KJ-3000 is intended to act as the People’s Liberation Army Air Force’s (PLAAF) mobile eyes and ears in the sky. This aircraft’s cutting-edge conformal radar system promises 360-degree coverage, improving its ability to identify a range of aerial threats.
The KJ-3000’s sophisticated radar can detect stealth aircraft, including the US F-22 Raptors and F-35 Lightning IIs, at a range of more than 360 kilometres, according to reports from Chinese state media and other sources. This capability directly challenges the stealth advantage that has long supported U.S. air superiority, especially in disputed areas like the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait.
China’s new AEW&C will serve as a flying command centre by integrating state-of-the-art command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (C4ISR) technology. As a modern Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft, it is expected to have basic electronic warfare and intelligence capabilities. It is also designed to track low-observable cruise missiles, enhancing its ability to detect and counter advanced aerial threats. [source]
2 Key Takeaways
China’s new AEW&C has been long anticipated, with wind testing models seen online in 2022 and its radome previously tested. However, not much is known about the capabilities of the new aircraft or its detection ranges. Despite the limited clarity in the blurred and grainy images, we can still draw some conclusions.
2.1 Engine Development
Ironically, despite its large radar dish, the most significant new capability of China’s AEW&C aircraft is its advanced engines. Recent images suggest that domestically developed WS-20 engines may now power the KJ-3000. When it comes to creating dependable, high-performance jet engines, China has historically lagged behind the United States and Russia, frequently depending on imported Russian technology for its military aircraft. This was particularly applicable to the KJ-3000’s predecessors, which previously relied on Russian low-bypass Soloviev D-30KP-2 turbofans.
The WS-20, a high-bypass turbofan developed by the Shenyang Aeroengine Research Institute, is a linchpin in Beijing’s decades-long Two Engines Plan, aimed at achieving self-sufficiency in aerospace technology. [source]
2.2 Radar and Surveillance Capabilities
At the heart of the KJ-3000 is a large, circular radome mounted on top of the fuselage, which houses multiple advanced radar antennas, in keeping with the traditional shape of AEW&C aircraft like the U.S. E-3 Sentry and Russian A-50 Mainstay. The system enables the aircraft to detect and track aerial threats, including aircraft, missiles, and drones, at long distances. Traditional ISR systems often use rotating dishes, but reports suggest that the KJ-3000 utilizes a fixed radar with multiple AESA antennas.
From the images circulating online, it appears that the KJ-3000 may have additional radar configurations beyond the primary radome. Analysts have noted the presence of large domes on both the forward fuselage and beneath the tail, reminiscent of the configurations found on existing Chinese AEW&C platforms, like the KJ-2000 and KJ-500. These additional sensors could enhance the aircraft’s electronic warfare capabilities and communication systems, making it a more versatile platform for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. [source]
Additionally, the design seems to include a sizable bulge on the tail’s underside. Whether the bulge is a side fairing (a streamlined panel intended to smooth airflow and reduce drag) is not evident from the photos that are currently available, but it is a possibility. The bulge likely contains radars or antennas, enhancing long-range detection, despite its subtle appearance.
3 Strategic Significance
3.1 China’s AEW&C Force
According to estimates, the PLA already has some 60 fixed-wing AEW&C aircraft. The PLAAF operates around four larger KJ-2000s, which are based on the Russian II-76MD design. Additionally, the PLAAF operates approximately 40 KJ-500, while together, the PLAAF and PLAN operate around 10 KJ-200. [source]
Similar to the U.S. C-130J, the Y-9, China’s domestic transport aircraft, is the basis for both the KJ-200 and KJ-500. The smaller, turboprop-powered KJ-200 and KJ-500 excel in operations from remote or austere airfields due to their lighter weight. China frequently deploys them at island outposts, and they regularly operate in the Taiwan Strait. Looking ahead, China has reportedly developed several other medium-range AEW&C aircraft, the KJ-700. [source]
3.2 Projection of Air Power
The significance of China’s new AEW&C aircraft extends far beyond its engines or radar capabilities. It represents China’s broader ambition to close the gap with the U.S. as a peer competitor in military technology. Beijing’s rapid innovations have challenged Pentagon analysts, with the KJ-3000 emerging as a key addition to China’s advancing military ecosystem.
4 Final Thoughts on the KJ-3000
The PLAAF operates many AEW&C aircraft, but the KJ-3000 marks a significant advancement in China’s early-warning capabilities. Previously reliant on older turboprop models, the shift to modern jet-powered systems represents a significant modernisation effort.
The KJ-3000 will enhance China’s ability to track stealth aircraft and coordinate military operations. It will also project air power over key strategic regions, including the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea. Its integration into the PLAAF’s command structure will likely bolster Beijing’s overall air defence and surveillance capabilities.
Though not officially announced by China’s military, the KJ-3000 will likely undergo further flight tests in the coming months. The KJ-3000 highlights China’s efforts to close the tech gap with the U.S. and strengthen its regional military power.
