Strategic bombers remain “irreplaceable” for China’s military – even as it makes progress with sixth-generation fighters and long-range missiles – given their role in global strikes and nuclear deterrence, analysts say.
They pointed to the American B-2 stealth bombers that hit Iran’s three nuclear sites on Saturday, dropping bunker-buster bombs directly over the facilities before returning unscathed.
Seven of the B-2 bombers were flown nearly 27,000km (16,700 miles) – supported by more than 100 other aircraft including aerial tankers – in the mission that lasted 37 hours.
With China’s next-gen stealth bomber, the H-20, still under development, analysts said the US Air Force operation underscored the importance of these warplanes.
“A dedicated strategic bomber is irreplaceable, even in an era when other long‑range strike options exist,” said Song Zhongping, a military analyst and former People’s Liberation Army instructor.
“A strategic bomber can carry out both nuclear and conventional attacks. It is a vital weapon for any major military power, and one that cannot be sacrificed for another.”
