Pakistan Enhances Aerial Surveillance with KJ-500 Aircraft Acquisition
Pakistan's Acquisition of KJ-500 Surveillance Aircraft
Pakistan has officially announced its decision to acquire KJ-500 surveillance aircraft from China. This move follows the loss of two out of three SAAB AEW&C (Airborne Early Warning and Control) aircraft during Operation Sindoor.
Impact of S-400 Attack on Pakistan's Surveillance Capabilities
The S-400 system deployed by India was responsible for the destruction of one of Pakistan's SAAB AEW&C aircraft, which was situated 314 kilometers within Pakistani territory. Consequently, this incident resulted in a significant 70% reduction in Pakistan's aerial surveillance capabilities.
According to China, the KJ-500 surveillance aircraft is described as a 'Flying Command Centre' that will enable the Pakistan Air Force to gather intelligence on enemy air operations prior to their initiation.
Features of the KJ-500 Aircraft
Developed by Shaanxi Aircraft Corporation, the KJ-500 is based on the Y-9 transport platform and is equipped with an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar system that offers 360-degree coverage. This radar is reportedly capable of detecting enemy fighter jets from distances of up to 470 kilometers. If China's assertions hold true, Pakistan will be able to monitor Indian airspace without breaching its own borders.
The estimated cost of the KJ-500 surveillance aircraft is around $300 million, making it a more economical option compared to American surveillance aircraft. Additionally, China claims that the KJ-500 can operate continuously for up to 12 hours and has a range of 5,700 kilometers. Pakistani analysts believe that this aircraft will enable monitoring of contested airspace stretching from the Arabian Sea to the Himalayan ranges.
Furthermore, the KJ-500 is anticipated to enhance Pakistan's capabilities in real-time data processing, command, and control, thereby improving its ability to make swift operational decisions.
India's Response to Growing Military Collaboration
China is advancing towards establishing a network-centric warfare system by integrating various platforms, including the J-10, J-35, HQ-9, and KJ-500. The increasing military partnership between Pakistan and China raises concerns for India. In response, India is actively bolstering its two-front war defense strategy to address potential future threats.
Experts suggest that while the KJ-500 may enhance Pakistan's surveillance capabilities, it is unlikely to pose a significant challenge to India's defense strategy, especially as India continues to invest heavily in its military capabilities.