China Develops Its Strategic Airlift Capability

The Y-20 strategic airlifter, developed by China's Xian Aircraft Industry Corp., took an hourlong test flight on Jan. 26 — its maiden voyage. If the development of the military transport plane is successful, it will fill a gap in China's arsenal and constitute a significant part of Beijing's incipient force projection and force multiplier capabilities. However, the Y-20 project is still in its early stages and already behind schedule. Moreover, the strategic airlifter has encountered several technical obstacles that could further slow its development.