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Specialist outlets and open-source observers have recently published fresh images of the People’s Liberation Army Air Force’s (PLAAF) modern tactical transport aircraft. The War Zone (TWZ) has provided a descriptive assessment of the new military aircraft. According to specialists, the four-turboprop transport, designated Y-15 and previously referred to as the Y-30, is expected to become a key element of China’s military transport fleet, which is currently being modernised.
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The Y-15 designation and its development
The aircraft was publicly linked to the Y-30 designation after a scale model was displayed at the 2014 Zhuhai Airshow, according to TWZ and Mig Flug. The Y-30 military aircraft was first sighted in December 2025 during a flight-test campaign in the city of Xi’an. However, Y-30 was a provisional label, with Y-15 being the model’s correct designation. It should be noted that no official Chinese sources have confirmed the information about the aircraft.
As the cited sources explain, the Y-15 is set to replace the PLAAF’s Y-8 and Y-9 medium transport aircraft fleets, both developed by Shaanxi Aircraft Corporation (SAC). Y-9 production has continued since the start of the century, while the need remains for aircraft capable of medium-range tactical transport and of replacing the Y-8 fleet, itself based on the Soviet Antonov An-12. The same company is developing the Y-15, which features a high-mounted wing, T-tail, a wider fuselage than the Y-9, a rear loading ramp and reinforced landing gear.
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Y-15 tactical transport aircraft: propulsion and projected performance
According to TWZ, the new Y-15 tactical transport aircraft is powered by four WJ-10 turboprop engines, each producing 6,800 horsepower, driving six-bladed propellers. By comparison, the PLAAF’s Y-20B strategic transport aircraft have been upgraded with WS-20 turbofan engines, while the Y-20A version uses Russian-built D-30KP engines. Specialists also suggest that the Y-15 is comparable to the US C-130J, which has a maximum payload of 21,183 kilograms and an average range of 4,000 kilometres.
The Y-15’s operational portfolio would centre on transport, logistics and airdrop missions, as well as rapid deployments and operations from limited infrastructure or short, uneven runways, as described by Aviacionline and TWZ. Unconfirmed estimates cited by the outlets indicate that the Y-15 could have a 30-tonne payload, an approximate maximum range of between 5,500 and 7,000 km, and more internal cargo space than the Y-9.
TWZ notes that the test prototype does not have an in-flight refuelling probe, but rather an aerodynamic data probe. It also indicates that the PLAAF could add such capabilities as it develops its tanker fleet. By way of illustration, the Y-20B’s multirole operating profile could allow its capabilities to be extended to offensive missions using cruise missiles, airborne early warning and electronic warfare through the installation of pods and modular kits.
Strategic contribution to PLAAF air capabilities
Development of the Y-15 tactical transport aircraft would represent a significant addition to PLAAF capabilities, enabling it to undertake numerous transport and rapid-deployment roles while supporting the replacement of the Y-8 and Y-9 fleets currently in service. China’s air component is a key asset in its strategy to project and consolidate power across the Indo-Pacific region. While the Y-20 provides strategic airlift capabilities, the future Y-15 could give the PLAAF additional tactical capabilities.
Image credits: The War Zone and @Rupprecht_A via X
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