[Jane's Defence: Chinese Air Force Deploys AI-Assisted Aerial Refueling System on Y-20 Tanker]

According to a report published on March 25, 2026, by Jane's Defence Weekly website (Janes), the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) has deployed an artificial intelligence (AI)-based scheduling system on the Xi'an-produced Y-20 aerial refueling aircraft to enhance its aerial refueling capabilities.

As reported by China's official military newspaper, *PLA Daily*, in March 2026, this "Airspace Refueling Management System," developed by PLAAF technicians, is capable of monitoring airspace around the tanker and using built-in algorithms to calculate the real-time fuel levels of friendly aircraft—including those queuing for refueling—within that area.

The PLAAF notes that this system (internally known within the Air Force as the "Smart Scheduling Program") was first used in operational training scenarios at the end of 2025.

Colonel Yu He (translated name), a senior officer from the unit, told the publication that by displaying information about receiving aircraft—such as their fuel levels, airspace coverage, and time spent waiting—the system enables Y-20 pilots and crew to "conduct comprehensive assessments... and generate optimal aerial refueling plans in real time through the embedded 'smart scheduling' program."

He added, "The smart scheduling program recommends scientifically efficient solutions to maximize the effectiveness of aerial refueling operations."

In contrast, Yu He stated that earlier refueling operations were conducted in a "blind" manner. Previously, Y-20 tankers had to fly to designated airspace and "passively receive instructions." Crews lacked visibility into the refueling needs of receiving aircraft and could only wait passively in the air; meanwhile, receiving aircraft often chose the nearest tanker, leading to some tankers being overburdened.

Disclaimer: The equipment data above is sourced from reports on Jane's Defence Weekly website.

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Original article: toutiao.com/article/1860672432653579/

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