What I meant is why don't the designers and engineers of the Y-9 and Y-20 *in general* design the two planes such that they are capable of being refueled mid-air from the very beginning, not just any variant of the Y-9 and Y-20.
China's transport, tanker & heavy lift aircraft
- Thread starter Totoro
- Start date
Probably because it isn't yet a requirement, because PLA air refueling capacity is so low to begin with.
Adding that extra capability as standard without immediate realistic application is likely a cost that the PLA is okay not taking on yet.
Has anyone got information if Y-20 will get a awacs version? if they dont do one, does that mean that they didnt like the kj-2000 concept and will stick will smaller aircraft?
TBH, im tired of watching Y-20A with old tech engines. Makes it look like dated and weak, despite being a pretty plane. Much rather watch Y-20B. I hope that we see more photos/footage of it in the near future.
There have been rumblings that a AEWC variant of Y-20 was under consideration, but it's unclear if they will actually develop and procure such an aircraft.
I personally do expect some special mission variants of Y-20, but not necessarily for the AEWC role.
And no, if they don't go for a AEWC variant of Y-20 it doesn't mean the KJ-2000 was "disliked".
Look around the world -- almost all air forces are procuring medium sized airframes for their new AEWCs.
That's because you don't need a big Il-76/Y-20/707/767 sized airframe to mount a highly competitive radar and airborne command/control capability anymore in this day and age.
737, Y-9 or Saab 340 sized aircraft are perfectly capable now.
