China Central Television reported that in late June, China plans to test the Jiutian drone, which has a range of 7,000 kilometers and can launch up to 100 small drones.
The drone will undergo several more tests after its first test flight before being handed over to the military.
The Jiutian was unveiled at the Zhuhai Air Show in China last November.
The drone can carry up to 6 tons of ammunition and small drones. The maximum takeoff weight is 16 tons, and the wingspan is 25 meters. It can fly higher than the world's existing medium-range air defense systems. From both sides of the drone's fuselage, it is possible to drop up to 100 units of incendiary munitions or small uncrewed aerial vehicles, including kamikaze drones, which expand its range of action.
The drone can perform reconnaissance, surveillance, data collection, and radio-electronic warfare tasks. It can also be used for various purposes: transportation in conditions of increased complexity and security, protection of public order and borders, maritime patrol, participation in emergencies, protection of natural resources, and in other areas.
China will launch its 1st drone mothership next month.
— Visegrád 24 (@visegrad24) May 18, 2025
The Jiutian SS-UAV will have a maximum take-off weight of 15 ton and a 25 meter wingspan. Its cruising altitude is said to be 15 km & its range 7000 km
It will carry more than 100 FPV drones for AI coordinated swarm attacks pic.twitter.com/SFHpKpX3x8
