China is set to launch its new “drone carrier” next month, aiming to expand the country’s ability to conduct unmanned aerial combat operations, according to a report by the South China Morning Post on Monday.
The unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), named Jiu Tian — which translates to “high sky” — is expected to carry out its first mission by the end of June. The launch will mark the beginning of a testing phase before it is officially deployed by the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).
Jiu Tian is powered by a high-thrust turbofan engine and has an impressive range of 7,000 kilometers (about 4,349 miles). It is designed to carry and deploy up to 100 small drones or loitering munitions, including kamikaze UAVs.
The drone also features eight underwing hardpoints and a modular bay, allowing it to launch drones for reconnaissance, strike, or electronic jamming missions.
This super-high altitude, long-range UAV was first unveiled to the public at China’s Zhuhai Air Show in November.
The development of Jiu Tian reflects China’s growing focus on unmanned aerial warfare, and its ability to launch multiple smaller drones makes it a potentially powerful tool for future combat scenarios.
