China’s PL-15 missile has downed Rafale jets. Is the PL-16 even more powerful?

China’s latest air-to-air missile, the PL-16, could have a range of more than 300km (186 miles) thanks to a variable-thrust rocket motor, according to an unverified image being circulated online.

It comes weeks after the first image emerged of the US Air Force’s new AIM-260 air-to-air missile – a joint advanced tactical missile with a range of at least 193km (120 miles).

It is not clear when the AIM-260 will enter service, but US officials have cited China’s PL-15 missile as a key driver for the programme.

The PL-15 currently serves as the backbone of the Chinese air force’s missile inventory. Its next-generation successor, the PL-16, has reportedly been under development in recent years though details remain highly classified.

However, an image has surfaced online of what is said to be a briefing slide on the development of air-to-air missiles in China – from the PL-11 to the PL-12, the PL-15 and the new PL-16.

The authenticity of the image has not been independently confirmed.

South China Morning Post