China has offered Nigeria the Y-20 Kunpeng transport aircraft, also known as the “Chubby Girl,” according to Nigerian Defense News.
The Y-20E, which is China’s largest military aircraft, was given to Nigeria’s Defense Minister, Mohammed Badar Abubakar during a diplomatic visit to Beijing in November 2023.
The Y-20 was publicly revealed at the Dubai Air Show in December 2023 and is considered China’s equivalent to the American C-17 Globemaster.
Currently, Nigeria relies on the C-130 Hercules as its main tactical airlifter, but military experts believe that the Y-20E would provide the country with significant strategic airlift capabilities.
The Y-20, China’s first heavy airlifter developed within the country, started its development in the mid-2000s, had its first flight in 2013, and became active in 2016. Although the exact number of aircraft in service is unknown, it is estimated that there is a fleet of at least 60 planes.
With dimensions of approximately 150 feet in length, 50 feet in height, and a wingspan of 160 feet, the Y-20 is a versatile aircraft suitable for various military and humanitarian operations. It has a range of nearly 5,000 miles.
The Y-20 has multiple functions, including airborne command and control, logistics and airdrops, aerial refueling, strategic reconnaissance, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief. These capabilities were highlighted in a recent report by the Pentagon on the Chinese military.
