The Shaanxi KJ-500 (Chinese: 空警-500; pinyin: Kōngjǐng Wǔbǎi; literally: "Air Warning 500"), also known as Qianliyan-500 () is a third-generation airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft used by the Chinese People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF). It was built by Shaanxi Aircraft Corporation, and is based on the Y-9 airframe.
Development
Since the beginning of the 21st century, the detection range and the accuracy of airborne radars have been increasing, and fighters equipped with various types of air-to-air missiles and low-altitude cruise missiles continue to improve in performance, creating a demand for a more capable AEW&C. To address the above issues, China began developing the KJ-500, China's third AEW&C model, in the late 2000s. The KJ-500 was required to have three important features, including good detection capability, good identification, and quick responsiveness. The KJ-500 was also required to be the core force of the information combat system; its equipment was required to have characteristics of networking, multi-functionality, high-integration, and lightweight.Technology characteristics of the 3rd generation early warning aircraft and its electronic reconnaissance system，ZHEN JunYi, China Academy of Electronics and Science，Beijing 100041，China
The aircraft carries a fixed dorsal radome containing three AESA radar arrays for 360-degree coverage and is said to be more efficient than the two-planar 'balance beam' array design used on the earlier KJ-200. Production of older AEW&C types reportedly ceased in 2018 in response to the KJ-500 reaching full operational capability.
In April 2018, China began testing KJ-500A, an improved variant with aerial refueling capability, better computer processing, improved cooling systems, new antennas to support the kill-webs, and enhanced satellite systems. By August 2018, at least two units were built. The KJ-500A reportedly entered service in late 2020. As of 2023, the KJ-500A had become the production standard with 7-8 airframes built. In 2026, it's estimated that half of the KJ-500 are KJ-500A variant in the Chinese military service.
Operational history In March 2022, General Kenneth Wilsbach, commander of U.S. Pacific Air Forces, identified the KJ-500 as an enabler for long-range Chinese air-to-air missiles.
Export and potential sales On 6 June 2025, Pakistan's government officially announced the country's plan to acquire the KJ-500.
Variants
KJ-500 Base variant KJ-500H Variant for PLA Navy. KJ-500A Improved variant with an aerial refueling probe. Debut in Zhuhai Airshow 2022.
Operators People's Republic of China People's Liberation Army Air Force - 40 KJ-500 People's Liberation Army Naval Air Force - 20+ KJ-500H
Future Operators
Pakistan Air Force - 4 on order
Algeria is finalizing a deal to acquire several units
Specifications Limited performance parameters of KJ-500 have been published as follows: Max speed (km/h): 550 Max range (km): 5700 Max endurance (h): 12 Max takeoff weight(tons): 77 Range against fighter sized targets (km): 470
See also
References