China’s Xi’an KJ-600 is a carrier-capable airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft developed to operate mainly from the People’s Liberation Army Navy’s Type-003 aircraft carriers. Reported specifications include an operational range of about 1,250 kilometers and a three-array active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar system arranged in a triangular configuration.
Developed by Xi’an, the KJ-600 is specifically designed for shipboard operations, enabling it to operate from carrier decks and integrate with carrier strike group operations. Its carrier focus suggests design features and systems tailored to the constraints and demands of sea-based aviation.
The KJ-600’s avionics package centers on a three-way AESA radar layout positioned in a triangular arrangement, a configuration intended to provide comprehensive azimuth coverage and reduce blind spots. The aircraft is reported to have a range of roughly 1,250 kilometers, allowing extended surveillance reach beyond the immediate carrier strike group.
As an AEW&C platform, the KJ-600 is meant to improve situational awareness, early threat detection, and battle-space management for carrier operations. By extending radar coverage and facilitating airborne command-and-control, the aircraft can enhance fleet air defense, fighter vectoring, and maritime domain awareness for the PLAN’s carrier task forces.
