The following represents an overview of the modern aerial fighting capabilities of the People's Liberation Naval Air Force (2020). The service currently counts 429 total units in its active aircraft inventory. The WDMMA review takes into account specific categories of aircraft covering attack, logistics, special-mission, and general support types. Inventory numbers and related aircraft types / variants are provided as-is and derived from publically-available information / sources. "Outlook" results are related to any future airframes currently under procurement though said airframes may not be delivered for service in the current year for various reasons. "Readiness Rates" are based on the published USAF standard. Due to discrepancies regarding UAV reporting between countries and sources, unmanned vehicles are currently not tracked by WDMMA.
Fighters (182)
Airframes detailed as fighter, interceptor, or general attack types including multi-role though excluding dedicated bombers and CAS.
Bombers (30)
Airframes developed for the strategic-level direct-attack role; typical qualities include subsonic or supersonic performance, long range, and high-altitude capabilities.
Helicopters (88)
Airframes detailed as manned rotary-wing platforms used in the transport, special-mission, or direct-attack roles.
Transports (30)
Airframes used in the dedicated hauler role, serving either military or high-government personnel or in supply / cargo delivery.
Trainers (52)
Airframes reserved for dedicated Basic, Advanced, Flight, and Helicopter airman training.
Special-Mission (47)
Airframes modified for Special-Mission roles - typically these are dedicated, role-specific types.
On Order (50)
Aircraft set to be delivered in the current procurement year or in subsequent year(s).
