China’s new H-6J maritime strike bomber: sharper vision, longer range, versatile roles

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 1 min read 100% complete by Amber WangJanuary 21, 2026 at 02:00 AM

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China has developed the H-6J maritime strike bomber, a new variant of the H-6 series, designed for enhanced long-range strikes and maritime surveillance. Equipped with reconnaissance pods, the H-6J can identify maritime targets at greater distances and across a wider area, according to a PLA bomber formation member. The H-6J, a naval version of the H-6K, primarily functions as an anti-ship weapon, potentially deterring vessels in scenarios such as a conflict over Taiwan. In recent years, the H-6J has conducted training exercises in the South China Sea, where China's territorial claims overlap with those of neighboring countries. The development of this bomber highlights China's growing maritime capabilities.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Philippines 40% Beijing 50% PLA Air Force 50% H-6K ×260% Taiwan 60% CCTV ×260% South China Sea 70% People's Liberation Army ×270% Cai Suliang ×280% China 80% H-6J ×590%

Keywords

maritime strike bomber 100% h-6j 90% long-range strike capabilities 70% maritime surveillance 60% anti-ship weapon 60% south china sea 50% reconnaissance pods 50% people's liberation army 40%

Sentiment Analysis

Neutral

Score: 0.05

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Source

South China Morning Post

Political Lean

Center-Right (0.50)

Far LeftCenterFar Right

Classification Confidence

90%

This article was automatically classified using rule-based analysis. The political bias score ranges from -1 (far left) to +1 (far right).

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maritime strike bomber h-6j long-range strike capabilities maritime surveillance anti-ship weapon south china sea reconnaissance pods people's liberation army

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