Although the video was released 05/30/23, this incident actually occurred last week. In this footage shot by a member of the crew, we see a Chinese J-16 Shenyang cross close in front of a United States RC-135, causing it to fly into, and be shaken by, the wake of turbulence created by the fighter. This is not an isolated incident, as in February 2023, a Chinese J-11 intercepted a US Navy P-8 Poseidon.

The J-16 is a deriviative of the Chinese J-11, which itself was based on the Russian Su-27. It has been officially in service since 2015. Various types of RC-135s have been in service since 1961, built on the venerable C-135 Stratolifter design.

About the Author

Cole Simms

Cole Simms is an Air Guardsman, NASA enthusiast, police officer, and security contractor with particular experience in austere environments. Outside of work, he volunteers as a Stop The Bleed instructor for area schools. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and blends his knowledge and experience to write analysis for Funker530.