On April 20, Israel’s ImageSat Intl. published satellite images showing a Chinese KQ-200 maritime patrol aircraft deployed at the Fiery Cross Reef in the South China Sea.
The KQ-200 (also known as Y-8Q or GX-6 or High New 6) is based on the Y-8 Category III Platform featuring WJ-6C turboprops with 6-blade each. The Y-8 is a medium transport aircraft produced by Shaanxi Aircraft Corporation itself based on the Soviet An-12. The Y-8 is the base platform for most Chinese special mission aircraft. The KQ-200 is fitted with a sensor and weapons suite that allows it to detect submarines.
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Click to see the full-size image
Click to see the full-size image
