Y-8 (GaoXin 3) Communication Relay Aircraft

The “Gaoxin 3” project is a communication relay aircraft designed to facilitate air/ground communications in the battlefield. The aircraft serves as a communication node in an integrated C3I network to connect the ground forces commanders with combat aircraft during a joint services operation. The aircraft features a large semi-spherical radome located on the back of the fuselage, which possibly houses a satellite communication (SATCOM) antenna, as well as a number of electronic antennas attached to the fuselage.

Last update: 20 March 2009