Airplanes24.net

Xi'an Aircraft Industrial Corporation, commonly known as Xi'an Aircraft Company (XAC), is a major Chinese aircraft manufacturer and a subsidiary of the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC). XAC is primarily involved in the design and production of military and civilian aircraft, with a significant focus on transport and bomber aircraft. Here’s an overview of some notable Xi'an aircraft and their production numbers:

Military Aircraft

1. Xi'an H-6: A strategic bomber, derived from the Soviet Tupolev Tu-16.

   • Production: Several hundred units. The H-6 has been in service since the 1960s and has undergone numerous upgrades, including variants for conventional bombing, anti-ship roles, and nuclear deterrence. The H-6 remains a critical component of China's long-range strike capabilities.

2. Xi'an JH-7 (Flying Leopard): A twin-engine fighter-bomber designed for ground attack and maritime strike roles.

   • Production: Over 200 units. The JH-7 is used by both the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) and the People's Liberation Army Navy Air Force (PLANAF).

3. Xi'an Y-7: A medium-sized transport aircraft based on the Soviet Antonov An-24.

   • Production: Over 100 units. The Y-7 has been used for both military transport and civil aviation roles, including passenger and cargo transport.

4. Xi'an Y-20: A large, strategic military transport aircraft designed to transport heavy cargo, including military vehicles and troops.

   • Production: Ongoing, with the number of units increasing as production continues to meet the needs of the PLAAF. The Y-20 is notable for its heavy lift capability and is seen as a key asset for enhancing China's strategic airlift capacity.

Civilian Aircraft

1. Xi'an MA60 (Modern Ark 60): A turboprop regional airliner developed from the Y-7.

   • Production: Around 90 units. The MA60 is used for regional passenger transport and has been exported to several countries.

2. Xi'an MA600: An upgraded version of the MA60, with improved avionics and performance.

   • Production: Ongoing, with a focus on both domestic and international markets. The MA600 is marketed as a more efficient and modern regional airliner.

3. Xi'an MA700: A new generation turboprop regional airliner currently under development.

   • Production: Not yet in full production; the MA700 is expected to enhance China's capabilities in the regional aviation market with improved efficiency and passenger comfort.

Specialized Aircraft and Developments

• Xi'an KJ-2000: An airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft based on the airframe of the Il-76, equipped with a phased array radar system. The KJ-2000 provides advanced surveillance and command capabilities for the Chinese military.

• Xi'an Y-9: A medium-sized, four-engine turboprop transport aircraft developed as an advanced version of the Shaanxi Y-8, which itself is based on the Antonov An-12. The Y-9 is used for military transport, paratrooping, and medevac missions.

Xi'an Aircraft Company continues to be a central player in China's aerospace industry, particularly in the military sector. The company focuses on developing and producing aircraft that enhance the country's strategic and tactical capabilities, as well as contributing to the domestic and regional civil aviation markets.