China conducted its first public aerial refueling exercises with a Y-20U tanker and H-6N bombers

Y-20U tanker and H-6N strategic bomber

For the first time, the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) publicly demonstrated its aerial refueling capabilities by conducting large-scale exercises involving the new Y-20U air tanker and H-6N strategic bombers. These maneuvers have become an important stage in the development of aviation infrastructure and the expansion of the range of Chinese strategic aviation.

Features of the exercises

- The Y-20U tanker is an upgraded version of the Y—20 transport aircraft, equipped with air refueling systems, which significantly increases the operational range of fighters and bombers.

- H—6N strategic bombers - capable of carrying cruise missiles and performing long-range strike missions.

- During the exercises, procedures for refueling in the air were worked out, including docking, fuel transfer and maneuvers in difficult conditions.

The public conduct of such exercises indicates the growth of the PLA's capabilities in the field of strategic aviation and increased readiness for long-range operations. Aerial refueling expands the range of bombers, allowing them to quickly respond to threats far beyond national borders.

The development of air refueling technologies and the expansion of the Y-20U tanker fleet will allow China to conduct larger and longer-term air operations in the future, which will significantly increase its influence on the international arena.