In a major boost to its defense capabilities, Pakistan is poised to significantly enhance its air surveillance and command infrastructure with China’s offer to supply the advanced Shaanxi KJ-500 Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft. The announcement, made via a government statement on social media, marks a strategic upgrade that could reshape the operational edge of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF).
The KJ-500—developed by Xi’an Aircraft Industrial Corporation—is one of China’s most sophisticated AEW&C platforms. Built on the Y-9 transport aircraft, it features a state-of-the-art phased-array radar housed in a rotating dome, providing 360-degree coverage and the ability to detect and track both aerial and ground-based threats. It is also equipped with electronic warfare systems and advanced data-link technology, allowing its 10-member crew to coordinate seamlessly with allied combat units.
This move aligns with Pakistan’s broader push to modernize its air fleet, as it also awaits delivery of next-generation Chinese stealth fighters, the J-35. These platforms will join the existing lineup of JF-17 Thunder and Chengdu J-10CE aircraft, positioning the PAF among the most technologically equipped air forces in the region.
The KJ-500’s recent international deployment during the “Eagles of Civilization” joint exercise with Egypt showcased its operational versatility, reinforcing China’s growing military reach. If the deal proceeds, it would mark a pivotal step in Pakistan’s defense evolution—expanding its battlefield awareness, enhancing electronic warfare capability, and cementing its strategic partnership with Beijing.
