Xian H-6

The long-range bomber derived from early jet strategic designs.

Overview

Xian China ICAO: H-6 1960–Present $46 million (1980)

The Xian H-6 is a Chinese-built bomber derived from the Soviet Tu-16. Introduced in the late 1950s, it has been continuously upgraded for strike and missile carrier roles. The aircraft remains in service with modernized variants.

Live Fleet Activity (H-6)

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Specifications

Units
Engine
2 × Xian WP8
Engine type
Jet
Thrust
2 × 21,000 lbf · 93 kN
Avionics
—
Wing tips
No winglets
Seats
6
Crew
—
Cabin width
—
Cabin height
—
Cabin length
—
Exterior length
114 ft 2 in  ·  34.80 m
Tail height
34 ft 0 in  ·  10.36 m
Fuselage diameter
6 ft 7 in  ·  2.00 m
Wing span
108 ft 3 in  ·  33.00 m
Baggage volume
—
Gross weight
—
Empty weight
—
Max takeoff weight
174,000 lb  ·  79,000 kg
Max landing weight
101,500 lb  ·  46,000 kg
Max payload
86,000 lb  ·  39,000 kg
Fuel capacity
12,150 gal · 45,900 L · 36,700 kg (Jet A)
Max cruise speed
570 kt  ·  656 mph  ·  1,056 km/h
Maximum speed
—
Cruise speed
—
Approach speed
—
Range
3,200 nm  ·  3,680 mi  ·  5,930 km
Fuel burn
—
Ceiling
42,000 ft  ·  12,800 m
Rate of climb
3,600 ft/min  ·  18 m/s
Takeoff distance
6,900 ft  ·  2,100 m
Landing distance
5,050 ft  ·  1,540 m
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Xian H 6K Strategic Bomber China Air Force.

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Operational Context

Xian H-6 — long-range strategic bomber

The H-6 first entered Chinese service in 1959 as a licensed version of the Tu-16. It features a swept wing and twin-engine configuration mounted at the wing roots. Over time, the aircraft has been modified with updated avionics and weapons systems.

Powered by two turbofan engines producing approximately 21,000 pounds of thrust (93 kN) each depending on variant, the H-6 cruises at around 450 knots (833 km/h). Maximum takeoff weight exceeds 170,000 pounds (77,110 kg). Modern versions carry cruise missiles rather than free-fall bombs.

The H-6 remains a key component of China’s long-range strike capability. Ongoing upgrades have extended the platform’s operational life. The aircraft reflects adaptation of a Cold War design into modern service.