China's Mysterious H-20 Stealth Bomber Set to Debut, Potentially Closing Gap with U.S.
China's H-20 Bomber: The Mystery Stealth Bomber Set to Transform the Nation's Aerial Warfare There’s been an air of mystery surrounding China’s H-20, a stealth bomber that has long been whispered about but never officially unveiled. However, the veil of secrecy may be lifting soon, as the deputy commander of the People's Liberation Army Air Force has announced that the H-20 is set for a grand reveal in the near future. During an interview with the Hong Kong Commercial Daily, Air Force Deputy Commander Wang Wei revealed that the H-20 bomber will be officially unveiled to the public imminently, saying, "Quickly, you wait!" This statement has sparked excitement among China's military enthusiasts and speculation about the capabilities of this new aircraft. Development of the H-20 has been anticipated since rumors first emerged in 2016.
22 March 2024
The lack of official news on the bomber's progress has led to numerous speculations and rumors. Wang Wei has put some of these rumors to bed by stating that there are no significant technological hurdles holding back the H-20's development. “There are no bottlenecks, we can solve everything,” he said. “Our scientific research personnel are very good now, they have the ability.” The H-20 is expected to significantly enhance the capabilities of the Chinese Air Force.
Wang Wei acknowledged this by affirming, "It certainly will. One generation of equipment brings one generation of combat effectiveness." The significance of this advancement is not lost on him, as he added, "It's worth being proud of and excited about.
Its importance is very great. It's a new generation of aircraft." The H-20 has been dubbed the "Storm" stealth bomber, a reference to its potential to deliver a whirlwind of fear to potential adversaries. Once developed and operational, it will be China's first domestically produced large stealth bomber, and the world's third stealth strategic bomber. Analysts suggest that if the H-20 successfully achieves operational status, it could close the gap between China's and the U.S.'s aerial warfare capabilities, potentially causing the United States to feel the pressure. This development comes on the heels of China's recently launched first domestically produced aircraft carrier.
With these new additions to the Chinese military, there is mounting skepticism surrounding China's military intentions. Wang Wei sought to put these concerns to rest, saying, "We don't compete with the U.S., we defend our own security!" When asked whether China could "leapfrog" the U.S. in terms of aerial military capabilities, he replied with a knowing smile, "That's something for everyone to see!"
Despite the keen anticipation, there are no concrete details available about the H-20's specifications. However, given the available information combined with the excitement generated by this announcement, it's clear that the H-20 is set to be a game-changer in the world of aerial warfare. With the unveiling of the H-20, China is poised to make a strong statement about its military capabilities.
Whether or not it will close the gap with the U.S. remains to be seen. However, Wang Wei's assertion that this new aircraft is "worth being proud of and excited about" is a sentiment that seems to be shared by many in China. The countdown to the H-20 reveal has begun, and as Wang Wei would say, "Quickly, you wait!"