Shaanxi Y-9JZ explained

The Shaanxi Y-9JZ is an electronic intelligence (ELINT) aircraft used by the Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy. It was built by Shaanxi Aircraft Corporation and is based on the Y-8F-600 category III airframe and driven by WJ-6C turboprops engine driving 6-blade propellers.

Main characteristic of the aircraft are a prominent nose-radome and four large rectangular-shaped fairings on both sides of the forward and rear fuselage. An electro-optical turret (containing FLIR/TV) is also mounted underneath the fuselage for surveillance purpose. The aircraft entered service in early 2012 and are routinely flying ELINT missions over the East China Sea near Japan.[1] Recent report indicate that Y-9JZ started to fly ELINT missions near the Taiwan Strait.[2]

Operators

People's Republic of China

Notes and References

  1. Web site: Japan Scrambles Fighter Jets in Response to Chinese Spy Plane Over Miyako Strait . The Diplomat.
  2. Web site: China's Recent ADIZ Violations Have Changed the Status Quo in the Taiwan Strait . Council on Foreign Relation.