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China has conducted the first flight of the “Jiutian,” a super-large drone that the country is already calling a “flying drone aircraft carrier.” Bloomberg noted that the tests took place in Shaanxi province.
Main theses:
- China has successfully completed the first flight of the “Jiutian,” a super-large drone that can carry a large number of drones and a variety of weapons.
- The development of unmanned systems in China is a priority strategy for increasing the country's defense capabilities and its geopolitical influence.
China's “drone aircraft carrier” makes maiden flight
The Jiutian (Nine Heavens) drone has been compared to an aircraft carrier due to its ability to launch a large number of drones and missiles. It is the largest known platform of its type in the world. The vehicle can carry up to six tons of weapons and has eight suspension points for guided bombs, air-to-air missiles, anti-ship missiles and even kamikaze drones.
One of the key features is the ability to carry more than 100 small drones in its fuselage, which can be launched in swarms to breach enemy air defenses. However, experts note that the scale of the device may reduce its stealth in combat.
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The Jiutian was first shown at the Zhuhai Air Show last year. The drone is manufactured by state-owned Xi'an Chida Aircraft Parts Manufacturing Co. Ltd.
Before it is put into service with the People's Liberation Army, the aircraft must undergo a series of additional tests.
China is ramping up its development of unmanned systems, while simultaneously showcasing new weapons — from amphibious assault ships to combat drones, unveiled at a parade in Beijing in September attended by Xi Jinping. Beijing continues its course to strengthen its military capabilities and compete with the United States.
Meanwhile, China is undergoing a massive military purge. US intelligence believes that corruption, particularly bribery in the Rocket Force, is undermining defense capabilities and hindering Xi's ambitions, including a potential invasion of Taiwan.
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The new “drone aircraft carrier” is set to become one of Beijing's most powerful unmanned weapons platforms.