China’s People’s Liberation Army has introduced an advanced artificial intelligence-driven air-to-air refuelling management system, transforming the process from human coordination into autonomous precision planning.
Developed by the Aviation Industry Corporation of China, the system uses real-time data analysis to determine fuel requirements and allocate tasks between combat aircraft such as the Chengdu J-20 and tanker platforms like the Y-20U.
The system enables faster coordination, reduced airspace congestion, and improved adaptability to evolving threats, while also offering future integration with unmanned aerial platforms. The development reflects a broader shift towards intelligent air operations aimed at enhancing efficiency and sustaining long-range mission capability.
