Long-range PL-17: How China is transforming the air balance of power

China has unveiled a new long-range air-to-air missile, the PL-17, that could pose a serious threat to US combat aircraft. Photos of the missile, taken during a public demonstration at an undisclosed location, have raised concerns among US military analysts.

According to DEFENSE EXPRESS, the PL-17 is about 6 meters long and can hit targets at distances of 300 to 500 kilometers. These characteristics could significantly affect the balance of power in air operations, especially in potential conflicts between the US and China in the Pacific region.

Although images of the missile have appeared before, the replica released at the demonstration is the first detailed photo showing its design. This marks a change in China’s approach, as the country has traditionally kept new weapons systems from public disclosure. American analysts consider this a telling signal that Beijing no longer perceives images of the PL-17 as sensitive information.

The missile is not new – the first photos of the PL-17 date back to 2016, when it was discovered on a Shenyang J-16 fighter jet, which is a Chinese modification of the Su-27. Officially, these photos were not made public until 2023. Since the J-16 is the main aircraft of the Chinese Air Force, with more than 300 in service, this suggests a likely mass production of the missile.

Experts believe that the PL-17 is equipped with a dual-pulse engine, which explains its large length – it is about two meters longer than the American AIM-120 and the Chinese PL-15. This missile has its own radar-homing head, but for effective use at maximum range it needs target data that can be provided by long-range radar detection aircraft.

The PL-17 is not an effective weapon against maneuvering fighters; its primary purpose is to destroy large air targets, such as long-range radar detection aircraft, air tankers, and command aircraft. The loss of such facilities would significantly limit American aviation’s capabilities, tying it to a limited number of bases within range of Chinese missiles.

Of particular concern is that the PL-17 could become standard equipment on China’s newest sixth-generation fighters, which can carry the missile internally.

The United States already has a similar development — the AIM-174B missile, based on the SM-6 naval system, capable of operating in air combat with a range of over 500 kilometers. However, American experts note that the number of such missiles is limited, and China benefits from logistical advantages by operating from continental territory.