So what's so similar between the KJ-3000 and A-100?
The only other ongoing modern heavy AESA AWACS to benchmark against. They're essential of the exact same size.
Some features (dual band array, extensive ELINT) are likely similar.
Which is interesting - student of late CW projects may remember several plans of heavy AWACS aircraft (including plans for superheavy ones, B-747 and An-124 based!) for VLO era.
None survived back then, b/c VLO proliferation itself got delayed for decades by peace dividend.
Everything else is either mini-awacs or outright AEW only; it has only a fraction of available space and power onboard. It is also far more affordable, to a degree - attritable.
A-100/KJ-3000 is very unlikely to be risked, unless it's some exceptional, Marianas level action; it should remain effective at a substantially larger stand off for that reason alone.
Hard to say much more really - we have some (rather superficial, but still) clarity on A-100; KJ-3000 is as of now mostly speculation.
Makes me wonder if that e/o sensor is meant for the b-2 and b-21 specifically given the KJ-3000 should have no problem picking up and tracking f-22s and f-35s.
Depending on the specific type of installation, big e/o may immediately provide weapons grade track on whatever it sees.
It can give a far superior ultra long range positive target ID, including on ground targets.
Also, very long range detection and tracking of small objects (missiles).
Finally, provided there's enough energy onboard, you may in fact play with laser through the same mirror. With harmful purposes.
For instance, you may try intercepting AIM-174s. AWACS can't hide - why not defend?
