China enhances standoff bomber attack capabilities

Chinese television footage released on October 4 showed H-6K bombers training alongside J-15T carrier-based fighters in a combat-readiness activity involving long-range standoff weapons. Visible armaments included KD-21 anti-ship missiles and a KD-63 cruise-missile variant with a redesigned nose, indicating changes from previously observed configurations. The unidentified bomber unit also practised coordinated fuel and avionics checks to shorten aircraft preparation time. The footage documents joint tactics and the appearance of the modified weapon, but does not establish its designation, seeker configuration or performance; proposed explanations for the nose changes remain assessments rather than confirmed specifications.