Y-9T Chinese Special Missions Aircraft

A picture has been released of yet another special missions aircraft derivative in the Shaanxi Y-9 family.

The aircraft is believed to be designated the Y-9T or New High 13 (GX13) and is reported to be equipped with two wires that can be reeled out aft of the cabin while making circling flights. With the resulting ring antenna, the aircraft can communicate with submarines using the Very Low Frequency radios, resulting in an efficient command communications relay station.

This feature was also used by the US Navy in the EC-130Q and is still in use with the E-6B Mercury, both designated "Take Charge And Move Out" (TACAMO) aircraft. The Y-9T features antennas on all sides including the top of the tail and the wingtips for a 360 degrees Electronic Support Measure (ESM) coverage.

Interestingly, the picture was taken at the same place pictured by the Google Earth cameras on 13 September 2020 at Dunhuang airport. The importance of this visit is puzzling as also a number of Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) systems could be seen on the tarmac at the same time.