Xian H-6K Bomber

Manufacturer: Xian Aircraft Industrial Corporation
Category: Bombers & Strategic Aircraft
Add to Compare

Maximum Speed High subsonic
Range 6,000 km
Payload Capacity Approx. 12,000 kg
Crew 4

Full Specifications

1. General Information

Name	Xian H-6K
Manufacturer	Xian Aircraft Industrial Corporation
Country of Origin	China
Introduction / In Service Since	2011
Status	Active
Category	Strategic Bomber
Crew	4
Unit Cost	Estimated 70–90 million USD

2. Dimensions & Structure

Length	34.8 m
Wingspan	33 m
Height	10.4 m
Wing Area	Approx. 165 m²
Empty Weight	Approx. 37,000 kg
Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW)	Approx. 95,000 kg

3. Performance

Maximum Speed	1,050 km/h (high subsonic)
Range	Over 6,000 km
Combat Radius	Around 3,500 km
Service Ceiling	12,800 m
Rate of Climb	Not publicly disclosed

4. Powerplant

Engine Type	2 × D-30KP-2 turbofan
Thrust (per engine)	12,000 kgf
Total Thrust	24,000 kgf

5. Payload & Armament

Internal Payload Capacity	Limited
Weapons Bay	None
Compatible Weapons	CJ-10, CJ-20 cruise missiles
Hardpoints	6 external

6. Avionics & Systems

Radar System	AESA radar
Navigation	INS with satellite navigation
Electronic Warfare (EW)	Defensive jamming suite
Stealth Features	None

7. Operational History

Primary Operator	PLA Air Force
Conflict Usage	Patrols and deterrence missions
Notable Missions	Long-range Western Pacific patrols

8. Additional Information

Variants	H-6K, H-6N
Successor / Future Replacement	H-20 bomber
Notable Features	Long-range cruise missile carrier
Estimated Operational Life	Beyond 2035

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

Stealth Capability 8 / 10
Payload Capacity 8 / 10
Range & Endurance 8 / 10
Electronic Warfare 8 / 10
Maintenance Efficiency 8 / 10

PROS

Long range strike capability
Cruise missile stand off weapons
Nuclear mission capable
Modernized avionics suite
Proven and reliable airframe

CONS

Non stealth design
Large radar signature
Limited air defense penetration
Relies on external weapons
Aging base airframe design

Xian H-6K Strategic Bomber

The Xian H-6K is China’s primary long range strategic bomber and a key part of the People’s Liberation Army Air Force bomber force. Designed to project power well beyond China’s borders, the aircraft supports conventional and nuclear strike missions across the Western Pacific and beyond.

Developed by Xian Aircraft Industrial Corporation, the H-6K is a heavily modernized version of the older H-6 series, itself derived from the Soviet Tu-16. The K variant entered service in the early 2010s and introduced major upgrades in engines, sensors, and weapons integration.

The bomber is powered by Russian built D-30KP-2 turbofan engines, which provide better fuel efficiency and range than earlier turbojet models. With an estimated combat radius of around 3,500 kilometers and an overall range exceeding 6,000 kilometers, the H-6K can reach Guam when armed with long range cruise missiles.

Its main strike capability comes from carrying CJ-10 and CJ-20 air launched cruise missiles on external hardpoints. These weapons give the aircraft the ability to strike land and naval targets from outside most air defense zones. The H-6K is also assessed to be nuclear capable, supporting China’s airborne leg of its nuclear deterrent.

Avionics upgrades include a modern glass cockpit, digital flight controls, and an active electronically scanned array radar in the nose. Electronic warfare systems provide basic self protection, though the aircraft relies more on stand off weapons than penetration.

Operationally, the H-6K regularly conducts long distance patrols over the South China Sea and Western Pacific. These missions signal China’s growing bomber reach and its intent to operate far from the mainland.

Xian H-6K Price

The Xian H-6K Strategic Bomber price in US terms is not officially disclosed. Defense analysts estimate a unit cost between 70 and 90 million US dollars based on engine imports, avionics upgrades, and weapons integration.

Reviews

Be the first to add a Review

Please post a user review only if you have / had this product.
Your Name *
Your Email *
Review Title *
Review Text *
Rate this Product
Stealth Capability:

8
Payload Capacity:

8
Range & Endurance:

8
Electronic Warfare:

8
Maintenance Efficiency:

8
Average Rating 6 / 10 based on your selection

Disclaimer Note

The information provided on TheDefenseWatch.com is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to ensure the accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of our content regarding defense and aerospace products, technologies, and specifications, we cannot guarantee that all information is 100% accurate or up-to-date due to the evolving nature of military technology and classified data. TheDefenseWatch.com does not warrant the reliability, suitability, or availability of the information for any specific purpose. Users are advised to consult official sources, such as manufacturers, government publications, or defense agencies, for precise and verified data before making decisions based on our content. We are not affiliated with any defense manufacturers, governments, or military organizations mentioned. Opinions, reviews, and ratings reflect expert analysis but are subjective and should not be considered endorsements. TheDefenseWatch.com is not responsible for any errors, omissions, or consequences arising from the use of this website’s content. External links are provided for convenience and do not imply endorsement. TheDefenseWatch.com reserves the right to update or modify content without prior notice. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy & Cookies Policy.