The PL-21 or PL-XX is an under development[3] active radar-guided beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile by the People's Republic of China.

PL-21
TypeBeyond-visual-range air-to-air missile
Place of originPeople's Republic of China
Specifications
Length4 m (13 ft)[1]

Operational
range
300-400 km
Guidance
system
Active radar[2]

Development and history

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The PL-21 is estimated to have a range of 300[2] to 400 kilometers.[4] and powered by a ramjet engine.[2][1]

See also

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Related lists

References

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  1. 1 2 Barrier & Thornley 2024, p. 131.
  2. 1 2 3 Wood, Yang & Cliff 2020, p. 40.
  3. "PL-21 Emerges: China's Deadliest Air-to-Air Missile May Soon Arm Pakistan's Stealth J-35A". Defence Security Asia. 27 May 2025. The PL-21, which remains under active development by Chinese defence firms, is envisioned as a next-generation missile capable of targeting AWACS, refuelling tankers, and electronic warfare aircraft from ranges exceeding 400 kilometers.
  4. Wood, Yang & Cliff 2020, p. 41.

Sources

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