OVERVIEW: The Y‑9XZ (GX‑9), also known as GaoXin‑9 “Cub,” is a Chinese special mission aircraft derived from the Y‑9 tactical transport, configured from around 2014–2015. It serves a psychological warfare and electronic attack (EW) role.

DETAILS: Developed by Shaanxi Aircraft Company under CETC, the Y‑9XZ first flew circa 2012 and entered PLAAF service around 2014. It uses four WoJiang WJ‑6C turboprops, cruises near 390 km/h, reaches 10 400 m service ceiling, and carries ~17 500 kg fuel. Its configuration includes large energy-intensive transmitters for VHF, HF, TV, and broadcast jamming/psychological messages, dorsal SATCOM antennas for cyber ops, plus wingtip, dorsal, and fuselage pods—comparable to the US EC‑130J Commando Solo.

As GX‑9, it is focused on COMINT jamming, PSYOPS, and broadcast disruption, rather than passive ELINT. It does not carry traditional ELINT gear for radar analysis. At least four units were noted in PLAAF inventory by 2023 with ongoing missions over strategic areas including the South China Sea.

TYPE: Tactical COMINT jamming/Electronic Attack & Psychological Warfare Aircraft

FUNCTION: Used to broadcast propaganda and disrupt enemy communications and media with high-power jamming. It supports cyber and PSYOPS missions and can target broadcast, VHF, HF, and TV systems from stand-off distances.

NOTE:
IOC: 2014–2015
Manufacturer: Shaanxi Aircraft Company / CETC (China)
Operator: People’s Liberation Army Air Force
Fleet: At least four Y‑9XZ (GX‑9) aircraft
Conflict use: Active missions in South China Sea and cross-strait PSYOPS

SOURCE: “Y‑9XZ Psychological warfare aircraft” Redstar gr https://www.redstar.gr/en/other/world-aviation/air-force-of-the-peoples-liberation-army-of-china/shaanxi‑cetc/y‑9xz‑psychological‑warfare‑aircraft.html , Chinese Military Aviation blog “Y‑9XZ High New 9” https://chinese‑military‑aviation.blogspot.com/p/surveillance‑aircraft‑ii.html , GlobalSecurity “Y‑9XZ (GaoXin 10)” https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/china/y‑9gx.htm