KC-135 Stratotanker vs SH-5

The KC-135 Stratotanker and the SH-5 are both Military Special Mission Aircraft, manufactured by Boeing and Harbin respectively. Top speed is 933 km/h for the KC-135 Stratotanker vs 556 km/h for the SH-5. The KC-135 Stratotanker has an operational range of 2,400 km vs 4,756 km for the SH-5. The KC-135 Stratotanker operates at altitudes up to 15,240 m compared to 10,250 m for the SH-5. At 146,283 kg MTOW, the KC-135 Stratotanker is 3.3x the SH-5's 45,000 kg. The KC-135 Stratotanker has been produced in 803 units vs 7 for the SH-5. The KC-135 Stratotanker first flew 20 years before the SH-5 (1956 vs 1976).

American refueling aircraft, deployed during Cold War, Desert Storm and ongoing operations worldwide for mid-air refueling missions.
Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker Other profile drawing
Origin country 🇺🇸 United States
Category Military Special Mission Aircraft
Manufacturer Boeing
First flight 31 August 1956
Year introduced 1957
Number produced 803 units
Average unit price $39 million
Chinese amphibious aircraft, notable for maritime patrol and anti-submarine warfare, used primarily in the late 20th century.
Harbin SH-5 Other profile drawing
Origin country 🇨🇳 China
Category Military Special Mission Aircraft
Manufacturer Harbin
First flight 3 April 1976
Year introduced 1986
Number produced 7 units
Average unit price --
Wing area 226.0 m² ◉
Wingspan 39.9 m â—‰
Height 12.7 m â—‰
Length 41.5 m â—‰
Maximum speed 933 km/h â—‰
Operational range 2,400 km â—‰
Service ceiling 15,240 m â—‰
Max. takeoff weight 146,283 kg â—‰
Empty weight 44,663 kg â—‰
Total thrust 4 x 2,453 kgf â—‰
Wing area 144.0 m² ◉
Wingspan 36.0 m â—‰
Height 9.8 m â—‰
Length 38.9 m â—‰
Maximum speed 556 km/h â—‰
Operational range 4,756 km â—‰
Service ceiling 10,250 m â—‰
Max. takeoff weight 45,000 kg â—‰
Empty weight 26,500 kg â—‰
Total thrust 4 x 587 kW â—‰

Performance Radar Chart

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is faster, the KC-135 Stratotanker or SH-5?
The KC-135 Stratotanker is faster with a maximum speed of 933 km/h compared to the SH-5's 556 km/h, a difference of 377 km/h.
Which has longer range, the KC-135 Stratotanker or SH-5?
The SH-5 has a longer range at 4,756 km compared to the KC-135 Stratotanker's 2,400 km.
Which can fly higher, the KC-135 Stratotanker or SH-5?
The KC-135 Stratotanker has a higher service ceiling at 15,240 meters (50,000 ft) compared to the SH-5's 10,250 meters (33,628 ft).
Which is heavier, the KC-135 Stratotanker or SH-5?
The KC-135 Stratotanker has a higher maximum takeoff weight at 146,283 kg compared to the SH-5's 45,000 kg.
Which is larger, the KC-135 Stratotanker or SH-5?
The KC-135 Stratotanker is longer at 41.5 meters compared to the SH-5's 38.9 meters.
Which entered service first, the KC-135 Stratotanker or SH-5?
The KC-135 Stratotanker entered service first in 1957, 29 years before the SH-5 which entered service in 1986.
Which has been built in greater numbers, the KC-135 Stratotanker or SH-5?
The KC-135 Stratotanker has been produced in greater numbers with 803 units compared to 7 units of the SH-5.