China has been actively developing and testing new drone technology, with a particular focus on the “Jiu Tian” drone carrier, also known as a “drone mothership.”
– Jiu Tian Drone Carrier: This new aircraft is designed to carry and launch swarms of up to 100 drones, including kamikaze drones. It has a maximum range of 7,000 km and can fly at high altitudes (15,000 meters). The first mission, consisting of operational tests, is expected by the end of June 2025.
Capabilities: The Jiu Tian is designed to enhance China’s drone warfare capabilities by deploying coordinated drone swarms that could overwhelm existing air defense systems. It can also carry cruise missiles and air-to-air missiles. Beyond military applications, it could be used for resource monitoring, disaster relief, and emergency response.
– Other Drone Developments: China is also developing smaller, more versatile drones for reconnaissance and precision strikes. These include first-person view (FPV) drones and drones that can be armed with grenades. Some drones are equipped with fiber optic cables to prevent jamming.
– Anti-Submarine Drones: China is developing drones equipped with magnetic sensors to detect submarines, even in areas where traditional sonar is ineffective. https://www.facebook.com/jeff.mah.5/videos/1383010096281682/?__cft__[0]=AZV_MyRLoBWsTcFHrUKVzHiTKX8Jtum0k4drLPTnt0n_BujpYHexKnaA23AgApgysBgNqZfvHWby6khgO9pTzbDa0gQoK3W3-wmsyaYMaHKebjAUdWvcnd0EN6xQEKDGo3RAJsUcGmCyPlcmoUbGTgKArUOTN__XOs5VdM10aSFcbA&__tn__=%2CO%2CP-R