China’s “drone carrier” Jiu Tian will take off for its first mission by the end of June, laying the groundwork for expanding the Chinese air force’s operational reach in unmanned aerial combat.
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Chinese media reports at the weekend commented on the coming launch, and state broadcaster CCTV confirmed the mission on Monday.
The first mission flight will mark the beginning of a series of tests before the “drone mother ship” UAV is deployed by the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).
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Flying taxis, airships and drones: the rise of China’s low-altitude economy
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Jiu Tian – or “high sky” – is a (UAV) that debuted at China’s premier Zhuhai air show in November.
With a maximum range of 7,000km (4,350 miles) and altitude of 15,000 metres (50,000 feet), the jet-powered drone is capable of carrying up to 6 tonnes of ammunition and small-sized drones.
It has a maximum take-off weight of 16 tonnes, a wingspan of 25 metres and an ability to fly above many of the medium-range defence systems that are currently deployed worldwide.
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Up to 100 units of loitering ammunition or small drones, including kamikaze UAVs, can be released from both sides of the belly of the aircraft – extending their reach.