Launched, simulated training completed, KJ-600 may join the Fujian aircraft carrier this year.
Since 2022, KJ-600 has undergone more than two years of intensive test flights, on a large scale. Images showing four prototypes in the same frame have appeared. It is estimated that there are at least six KJ-600 prototype aircraft, meaning that aside from one used for static testing, at least five KJ-600 aircraft are flying simultaneously. How could the progress not be fast?
More importantly, various signs indicate that KJ-600 has successfully completed aircraft carrier takeoffs. In the sixth sea trial of the Fujian aircraft carrier in January this year, satellite images showed that the green KJ-600 had successfully launched via catapult.
Therefore, there are reports that KJ-600 has entered mass production. In fact, the Fujian aircraft carrier only carries four KJ-600 aircraft, with perhaps six including spares. The production volume is indeed small. Unless a land-based model is developed, there is no real need for large-scale production. However, the Naval Aviation University has already begun simulating takeoff and landing training for KJ-600. According to plans, the Fujian aircraft carrier will complete all sea trials by 2025, so KJ-600 may join soon.
As a new generation of carrier-based early warning aircraft, KJ-600's radar uses full digital array technology and extensively equips gallium nitride devices, with a detection range for stealth aircraft surpassing the APY9 radar of the E-2D. It can also link up with shipborne air defense systems, potentially guiding the HQ-9B directly.
Given that the E-2D was commissioned as early as 2015 and did not adopt gallium nitride technology but only installed silicon carbide components, KJ-600 has already created an intergenerational pressure on the E-2D.
Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1828612402892811/
Disclaimer: This article represents the views of the author alone.