By Staff Reporter
WINDHOEK, December 17 — The Namibian Air Force has officially received two Y-9E medium transport aircraft, becoming the first international customer of China’s Shaanxi Aircraft Corporation (SAC).
According to overseas reports and Chinese media, the transaction was finalized in early 2023, marking the debut of the Y-9E’s export success.
The handover took place recently at Grootfontein, Namibia, confirming the delivery of the two aircraft. The Y-9E is an export variant of the Y-9 tactical transport aircraft, developed by SAC, a subsidiary of the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC).
The Y-9E is designed as a medium-sized transport aircraft, bridging the gap between smaller tactical airlifters and larger strategic cargo planes. The aircraft’s specifications include a length of 36 meters, a wingspan of 38 meters, and a maximum takeoff weight of 65 tons. With a top speed of 660 kilometres per hour, it operates at cruising altitudes between 7 and 8 kilometres and boasts a range of up to 5,200 kilometres. The Y-9E can transport up to 20 tons of cargo, making it a versatile choice for nations with moderate transport needs.
While the Y-9E is based on the earlier Y-8 design, itself a derivative of the Antonov An-12, its incremental updates provide improved operational efficiency. However, the platform’s overall technological sophistication is considered modest by global standards. Analysts have emphasized the need for continued advancements in China’s transport aircraft sector to remain competitive in the international market.
