Pakistan has confirmed that it will purchase KJ-500 surveillance aircraft from China. The decision comes after the country lost two out of three of its SAAB AEW&C (Airborne Early Warning and Control) aircraft during Operation Sindoor.
S-400 attack left Pakistan with 70% surveillance loss
India’s S-400 system had destroyed one of Pakistan’s SAAB AEW&C aircraft located 314 kilometers inside Pakistani territory. As a result of the attack, Pakistan lost 70% of its aerial surveillance capacity.
China claims that the KJ-500 surveillance aircraft is a “Flying Command Centre” that will provide the Pakistan Air Force with intelligence on enemy air operations even before they are launched.
KJ-500 offers 360° radar coverage
The KJ-500 is developed by Shaanxi Aircraft Corporation and is based on the Y-9 transport platform. It features an in-built Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar system, which provides 360-degree coverage. This radar is reportedly capable of detecting other flying fighter jets at a distance of up to 470 kilometers. If China’s claims are accurate, Pakistan would be able to monitor Indian airspace without crossing its own geographical boundaries.
Defence experts estimate the cost of the Chinese surveillance aircraft at around $300 million, which is considered cheaper compared to American surveillance aircraft. China also claims that the KJ-500 can fly continuously for up to 12 hours and cover a range of 5,700 kilometers. Pakistani experts assert that the aircraft can monitor disputed airspace from the Arabian Sea to the Himalayan ranges.
The KJ-500 is also expected to provide Pakistan with real-time data processing, as well as command and control capabilities, enhancing its ability to make quick operational decisions.
India strengthens two-front war strategy
China is working towards building a network-centric warfare system by integrating platforms like the J-10, J-35, HQ-9, and KJ-500. The growing military collaboration between Pakistan and China is seen as a concern for India. However, India is also rapidly strengthening its two-front war defence strategy to be prepared for any future challenges.
Experts believe that the KJ-500 alone may not be able to significantly challenge India’s defence strategy, as India continues to make massive investments in its defence capabilities.
