The KJ-600 carrier-based early warning aircraft, which made its debut at the September 3 military parade in Beijing, is hailed as a “mobile airborne command post at sea” for its role in extending the vision of fighter jets and enhancing the situational awareness of China’s maritime combat system.
The grand military parade was held to commemorate the 80th anniversary of victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.
Developed independently by China, the birth of the carrier-based KJ-600 marks a leap forward in the country’s pursuit of a modernized navy, providing essential support to carrier strike groups and greatly improving their operational efficiency and survivability.
A KJ-600 carrier-based early warning aircraft is seen during a military parade, Beijing, China, September 3, 2025
“As a carrier-based early warning aircraft, the most distinctive feature is its foldable wings. On an aircraft carrier, this means we can station more early warning aircraft, which enhances efficiency in both takeoff and combat operations,” Li Yuan from Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Naval Aviation University told China Media Group (CMG).
He emphasized that while compact in size, the KJ-600 is highly advanced.
“Though small, it is fully equipped. As a carrier-based early warning aircraft, its functions are very advanced. You can see that like carrier-based fighter jets, the KJ-600 is also fitted with a tail hook, which ensures safe and stable landings on an aircraft carrier,” Li said.
He further underlined the significance of the aircraft’s development for China’s naval system.
“The KJ-600 carrier-based early warning aircraft is an all-weather system independently developed by our country. It is indispensable for building a modern navy and enhancing the survivability of carrier groups,” Li said, adding that the aircraft enhances the overall combat effectiveness of our carrier-based formations.
