[Jane's Defence: China Publicly Reveals Multi-Role Tanker Transport Capability of the Y-20B]
According to a report published on August 11, 2026, by Jane's Defence Weekly website (Janes), a documentary aired by official Chinese media revealed that China’s new Xi’an Y-20B “Kunpeng” transport aircraft possesses multi-role tanker transport (MRTT) capability.
In a video broadcast on August 5, CCTV stated that the Y-20B can "switch between transport and aerial refueling functions." Jane's Defence is unable to independently verify this claim, as no observed evidence of the Y-20B being equipped with an in-flight refueling system has yet emerged.
A pilot from the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) mentioned in the documentary that the B-model variant, powered by domestically produced Shenyang WS-20 engines, can also undertake missions such as bomber operations, airborne early warning, and electronic warfare.
CCTV noted that the WS-20 is a high-bypass turbofan engine, hailed as the "Chinese Heart." The report added that after integrating this powerplant, the platform’s operational flexibility has significantly improved.
CCTV also stated: "The aircraft is primarily designed for transport purposes and can be converted into an aerial refueling tanker through the installation of a refueling pod and associated components."
The Y-20B began entering service with the PLAAF between 2024 and 2025. In the documentary, PLAAF personnel Pang Rongqi said: "The distinction between transport aircraft, bombers, early warning aircraft, and electronic warfare planes is becoming increasingly blurred. In the future, our transport aircraft platforms are expected to perform all these types of missions."
Disclaimer: The above equipment data originates from reports on Jane's Defence Weekly website.
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Original source: toutiao.com/article/1873268407569419/
Disclaimer: This article reflects the personal views of the author.