China Takes Giant 'drone Aircraft Carrier' To The Skies For The First Time

Beijing is demonstrating the growing superiority of drone technology against a backdrop of military modernization.

China has made the first flight of the "Jiutian," an extra-large drone that the country is already calling a "flying drone aircraft carrier." As Bloomberg reported, noting that the test took place in Shaanxi province.

The Jiutian ("Nine Heavens") drone is being compared to an aircraft carrier because of its ability to launch a large number of drones and missiles. It is the largest known platform of this type in the world. The vehicle can carry up to six tons of armament and has eight suspension points for guided bombs, air-to-air missiles, anti-ship missiles and even kamikaze drones.

One of its key features is the ability to transport more than 100 small drones in its fuselage, which are launched in swarms to break through enemy air defenses. At the same time, experts note that the scale of the device may reduce its stealth in combat.

The Jiutian was first shown at the Zhuhai Airshow last year. The drone is manufactured by state-owned Xi'an Chida Aircraft Parts Manufacturing Co. Ltd. Before it can be put into service with the People's Liberation Army, the aircraft must undergo a series of additional tests.

Military modernization and anti-corruption purges

China is stepping up development of unmanned systems, in parallel with demonstrations of new weapons, from landing craft to combat drones, unveiled at a parade in Beijing in September attended by Si Jinping. In this way, Beijing continues on a course to strengthen its military capabilities and rivalry with the U.S.

At the same time, China's massive military purges continue. U.S. intelligence believes that corruption, particularly bribery in the Rocket Force, undermines defense capabilities and hinders Xi's ambitions, including a potential scenario of an invasion of Taiwan.

Demand for unmanned systems has surged since the start of Russia's full-scale war against Ukraine, where drones have proven effective in destroying tanks, ships and other expensive equipment. The Chinese industry is growing rapidly, from civilian manufacturers DJI and Easy Fly to large defense companies.

The new "drone aircraft carrier" is set to become one of Beijing's most powerful unmanned weapons platforms.

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