The head of U.S. Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC) has recently addressed the ongoing advancements in China’s long-range strike aircraft capabilities. While acknowledging China’s efforts, he emphasized that the nation remains primarily a regional bomber force, despite aggressive strides toward developing assets like the long-awaited H-20 stealth bomber.
In a conversation with TWZ‘s Howard Altman last month, AFGSC Commander Gen. Stephen Davis discussed China’s aviation developments and the evolving role of his command in potential Pacific conflicts. He also touched upon forthcoming U.S. strategic developments, including the B-21 Raider stealth bomber and the LGM-35A Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), among other significant topics. This marked Davis’ inaugural interview since assuming command of AFGSC in November 2025.
The Chinese People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) recruitment video below from 2021 includes a teaser for the H-20 at the very end.
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Davis expressed understanding regarding China’s ambition for long-range strike capabilities similar to those of the U.S. He mentioned that China is pursuing this project vigorously, particularly highlighting the H-20 and two large stealthy drones that emerged recently. TWZ was first to report on the emergence of both designs, which seem to be at least in the initial flight test phase.
The H-20 is believed to be a stealthy flying wing-type bomber, akin to the U.S. B-2 Spirit. Its development reportedly dates back to the early 2000s. U.S. military assessments have previously estimated that it could achieve a maximum unrefueled range of approximately 6,214 miles (10,000 kilometers), which can be extended further via aerial refueling. Reports suggest that it could potentially carry up to 10 tons of ordnance, which includes land-attack and anti-ship cruise missiles.
“What I can tell you is they’re just not there yet,” Davis remarked. “Our adversaries look at our long-range strike capabilities and want to replicate them, but they are currently unable to do so.”
“There’s no other country in the world, apart from the United States, that can effectively deploy a long-range strike platform on any day, at any time and location of their choosing,” he stated further. “At best, China is a regional bomber force, and they are striving to enhance that capability.”
China’s bomber fleet primarily features variants of the H-6, designed originally from the Soviet Tu-16 Badger. The H-6N version, which officially debuted in 2019, has reinstated the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) strategic nuclear triad. This model can carry a single large air-launched ballistic missile (ALBM) underneath its fuselage, and many versions are capable of mid-air refueling. While it remains unclear how many missile types are integrated onto the H-6N, its arsenal includes the nuclear-capable Jinglei-1 (JL-1), which can be explored further here.
Davis’ remarks align with previous statements from U.S. officials regarding the H-20. An unnamed official described the stealth bomber in 2024 as “not really” a concern, according to a report from Breaking Defense.
“Examining its design, it likely falls short of U.S. low-observable platforms, particularly the more advanced ones set to debut soon,” the official noted. “China has encountered numerous engineering challenges, particularly in replicating the capabilities of systems like the B-2 or B-21.”
“The H-20 … may debut sometime in the next decade,” the Pentagon stated in its annual report to Congress on Chinese military advancements later in 2024. This report also mentioned ongoing Chinese initiatives to develop a stealthy medium-range bomber, formerly known as the JH-XX.
The Pentagon’s latest annual China report, published in December 2025, notably omitted any reference to the H-20 or JH-XX, although it highlighted some Chinese military capabilities that align with Davis’ comments about the limitations of the Chinese bomber force.
Despite earlier claims from the PLA that the H-20 program was advancing successfully, its current status remains ambiguous. The status of the JH-XX is also uncertain, raising questions about any overlap with projects such as the J-36 advanced tailless tactical combat aircraft. In recent years, there had been heightened official statements about the imminent arrival of the H-20, but such proclamations have diminished significantly.
This contrasts with a surge of other notable developments in Chinese military aviation, including the aforementioned drones, the J-36 and J-XDS sixth-generation stealth fighters, the GJ-11 uncrewed combat air vehicle, and the new KJ-3000 airborne early warning platform. Additionally, the PLA Navy (PLAN) has made substantial advancements in strengthening its carrier-based aviation capabilities.
As TWZ has previously noted, platforms like the H-20 could significantly alter the PLA’s ability to threaten extensive regions in the Indo-Pacific, potentially jeopardizing parts of the continental United States. An expanded long-range strike aviation force would enhance China’s capabilities to target strategic regions, including Guam and Hawaii, while also posing a risk to regional competitors such as Japan and India. If operationalized, the potential JH-XX could also play a critical role in future regional operations.
The PLA has actively expanded its routine bomber operations in the western Pacific, especially surrounding Taiwan and the contested South China Sea. Chinese bombers are also coordinating with their Russian counterparts during joint missions.
In his latest interview with TWZ, Gen. Davis reiterates the significance of American bombers in the Pacific region.
“We must maintain our capability to fulfill our responsibilities, executing operations as directed across various scenarios,” he stated, addressing the complex threats posed by China’s advanced anti-access and area-denial capabilities. “The B-21 enhances our ability to penetrate adversary defenses, featuring improved sensors and data integration to strengthen our capabilities as a penetrating bomber.”
“Long-range strike capabilities are integral to our mission sets in the Department of War,” Davis remarked, when discussing potential applications against Chinese naval forces. “The versatility of modern weaponry significantly enhances our ability to engage diverse targets.”
“In any significant confrontation the U.S. faces, our bomber forces will be essential in applying these capabilities effectively,” he added.
In light of this, China continues to pursue advancements in long-range strike aviation, though the timeline for the H-20’s introduction remains uncertain.
Contact the author: joe@twz.com
Key Takeaways
- The U.S. AFGSC leader regards China as mainly a regional bomber force, despite notable advancements in aerospace technology.
- China’s H-20 remains under development, anticipated to match similar capabilities of U.S. bombers.
- The H-20 is rumored to have long ranges and large payload capacities, including nuclear options.
- The significance of American bombers in the Pacific continues to grow amidst evolving threats.
- China is vigorously expanding its bomber operations, particularly in contentious areas like the South China Sea and Taiwan.
FAQ
What is the current status of the H-20 stealth bomber?
The H-20 is still under development, with no definitive release date established yet.
What role do U.S. bombers play in the Pacific?
U.S. bombers are pivotal in deterrence and operational capabilities against potential threats in the region.
How does China’s bomber fleet compare to that of the U.S.?
The Chinese fleet primarily operates regional bombers, while the U.S. offers extensive long-range strike capabilities that are unmatched globally.
What technological advancements has China made in its military aviation?
China has made significant strides with various aircraft models, including the development of stealth fighters and drones.
Are there any collaborative efforts between China and Russia in military aviation?
Yes, joint air patrols have been conducted, enhancing military cooperation between China and Russia.
