China deploys new KJ-3000 early warning aircraft to neutralize the stealth capacities of US stealth fighters.

On December 26, 2024, China's next-generation airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft, the KJ-3000, made its maiden flight. The KJ-3000, with a reported detection range exceeding 360 kilometers for stealth aircraft, is based on the domestically developed Y-20B transport aircraft and is powered by WS-20 engines. This platform positions the KJ-3000 as a large-scale AEW&C system, comparable to the KJ-2000, while differing from medium-sized systems such as the KJ-200 and KJ-500.
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The Y-20B platform offers significant payload advantages, with the KJ-3000 capable of carrying up to 66 tons, 16 tons more than the KJ-2000. (Picture source: Weibo)

The KJ-3000 employs a conformal antenna radar system, marking a departure from traditional radar designs. Integrated directly into the aircraft’s structure, the conformal radar provides 360-degree situational awareness and enhances the detection of stealth targets. According to reports, the radar offers a detection range between 600 and 1,000 kilometers for conventional targets and exceeds 360 kilometers for stealth aircraft like the F-22 and F-35. The radar's design minimizes aerodynamic drag, enhancing flight efficiency and operational endurance. Additionally, the system reportedly can track up to 100 targets simultaneously.

The Y-20B platform offers significant payload advantages, with the KJ-3000 capable of carrying up to 66 tons—16 tons more than the KJ-2000. The WS-20 engines improve fuel efficiency, provide higher thrust, and enable extended flight operations. This domestically produced platform reduces reliance on imported systems, such as the Russian Il-76 used for the KJ-2000, enabling potential large-scale production and customization. The platform’s design reflects advancements over its predecessors, such as the KJ-2000, which featured a rotating radar dome mounted on the Il-76 airframe. The KJ-3000's shift to conformal radar allows for a streamlined design, enhancing aerodynamic performance while maintaining high detection capability.

The KJ-3000’s radar technology integrates digital phased array systems, further enhancing detection and tracking capabilities. This design reduces weight and improves the aircraft's fuel efficiency, operational speed, and range. Early assessments suggest the radar may detect, identify, and track advanced stealth aircraft such as the U.S. F-22 and B-21 bombers. Reports also indicate the system's ability to detect smaller radar cross-sections could match ground-based radars under certain conditions.

The aircraft incorporates C4ISR (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) systems, enabling it to function as a comprehensive command center. These systems facilitate coordination across air, land, and sea domains. The KJ-3000 is expected to operate alongside advanced fighter jets such as the J-20, J-16, and J-10C, reinforcing China’s air defense network.

Strategically, the KJ-3000 addresses the rise of advanced stealth technologies. Its capabilities aim to counter next-generation stealth aircraft, including sixth-generation fighters anticipated by 2030. Unverified reports suggest the KJ-3000 may feature active electromagnetic attack capabilities, potentially disrupting or disabling adversary electronic systems over long distances. Rumors also indicate support for integrating PL-17 air-to-air missiles, enhancing its role in both defensive and offensive operations, addressing one of the longstanding weaknesses of AWACS platforms.

The KJ-3000's development aligns with other advancements in China’s military capabilities, such as sixth-generation fighter prototypes and the Type 076 assault carrier. These unveilings coincide with key anniversaries, including the rollout of the J-20 fighter, reflecting a strategic effort to showcase defense advancements. The KJ-3000’s timing highlights its relevance to China’s strategic objectives, particularly in the Pacific region. Its capabilities are expected to strengthen China's ability to detect and counter advanced threats, including stealth technologies used by potential adversaries.

The KJ-3000 is positioned to play a significant role in China’s AEW&C fleet, complementing large-scale systems like the KJ-2000 and medium-sized platforms such as the KJ-200 and KJ-500. Its conformal radar and digital phased array technology enhance stealth target tracking and operational efficiency. Built on the domestically developed Y-20B platform, it offers extended range, greater payload capacity, and higher endurance, reducing reliance on imported systems like the Russian Il-76. As part of a multi-layered air defense network, the KJ-3000 is intended to address evolving aerial threats and boost operational capacity. Unverified sources suggest the KJ-3000 may eventually replace older platforms like the KJ-2000, which has been in service for nearly two decades.

Based on the Y-20B platform, the KJ-3000 is expected to provide the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) with enhanced airborne early warning and control capabilities. Featuring conformal antenna radar technology, it delivers 360-degree coverage and improves the detection of stealth aircraft, including U.S. fighters like the F-22 and F-35, designed with low radar cross-sections. These advancements may diminish the operational advantages of U.S. stealth aircraft by increasing their visibility in contested airspaces. Additionally, the KJ-3000’s upgraded command and control systems are likely to enhance coordination among Chinese military assets, potentially complicating adversaries' strategic operations.