The PL-17 image is the latest in a series of high-profile leaks that have emerged from China over the past few years. The renewed attention on the PL-17 comes just months after China’s PL-15E long-range AAM was reportedly used in real combat. Regardless of the disputed outcomes, the episode highlighted the operational relevance of long-range air-to-air missiles and sharpened regional and global focus on China’s missile development trajectory. Long-range and very long-range air-to-air missiles are transforming the nature of aerial combat. The clearer image of the PL-17 does more than satisfy curiosity—it underscores a profound shift in air combat.