Source The eurasian time
China has publicly revealed details of its PL-17 long-range air-to-air missile, a weapon system that analysts say could significantly alter the balance of power in aerial combat and challenge long-standing U.S. air superiority. Often described as the “big brother” of the PL-15, the PL-17 is believed to be designed specifically to target high-value airborne assets at extreme ranges.
The PL-17 is reportedly capable of engaging targets such as airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft, aerial refuelling tankers, and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) platforms. These aircraft play a critical role in modern air operations by extending radar coverage, coordinating fighter missions, and sustaining long-range deployments. By threatening these assets, the PL-17 could disrupt an adversary’s ability to project air power far from its home bases.
While China has released limited official specifications, defence experts estimate the missile’s range could exceed 400 kilometres, significantly longer than most operational air-to-air missiles currently fielded by other major powers. The missile is believed to use an advanced guidance system, possibly combining active radar homing with data-link updates from airborne or space-based sensors, allowing it to engage distant and manoeuvring targets.
The PL-17 is expected to be carried by China’s advanced fighter jets, including the J-20 stealth fighter. This combination could enable the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) to launch long-range engagements while remaining outside the detection and engagement zones of enemy aircraft. Analysts note that such a capability fits into China’s broader strategy of anti-access and area denial (A2/AD), aimed at limiting an adversary’s freedom of operation in contested regions like the Indo-Pacific.
U.S. military planners have long relied on air superiority as a cornerstone of power projection. However, the emergence of weapons like the PL-17 underscores growing concerns in Washington about the vulnerability of support aircraft that underpin U.S. and allied air operations. In response, the U.S. is investing in longer-range missiles, improved electronic warfare, and distributed operational concepts to reduce reliance on a small number of high-value platforms.
Although the PL-17’s real-world performance remains untested in combat, its public unveiling signals China’s intent to compete at the highest levels of air warfare technology. As great-power competition intensifies, the missile adds another layer of complexity to an already evolving aerial battlespace, prompting renewed debate over how future air superiority will be achieved and maintained.
