The Chinese top unmanned air vehicle (UAV), called Jiu Tian or “High Sky”, is preparing for its first mission by the end of June, referring to an important milestone in the growing drone combat capabilities in the country, informed South China.
According to the publication, the CCTV broadcaster confirmed the upcoming flight on Monday, which will launch a number of operational tests before the aircraft formally adopted by the human liberation army (PLA).
Jiu Tian, who was presented at the Zhuhai air show in November, attracted considerable attention to his impressive specifications and the potential to transform air operations, reported in the report. This high altitude drone is designed to act as a “mother ship” capable of launching swarms of smaller drones and lotion ammunition in the middle of the air, which significantly increases Chinese combat reach and strategic versatility.
With a range of 25 meters and a maximum take -off weight of 16 tons, the UAV driven beam can rise to 15,000 meters (approximately 50,000 feet) and boasts an operating range of 7,000 kilometers. It can carry up to six tons of useful load, including up to 100 kamikaze drones or the loiting ammunition, located from dual bays on both sides of its fuselage. This allows coordinated swarm attacks and allows UAV to bypass traditional air defense systems.
The aircraft, which is reported to be equipped with eight hard points, can support various payloads suitable for missions from supervision and survey to electronic war. The Bay Payload Bay modular design also allows use in civil and non-combat roles such as border control, maritime supervision, emergency rescue and environmental monitoring.
According to the report, Jiu Tian was developed by the State Air Industry Industry in China (AVIC) and made by Xian Chida Aircraft Parts Manufacturing, under the umbrella of Guangzhou Haige Communications. It adds another layer to the Chinese expanding fleet of drones, which already includes advanced models such as the secret CH-7 and the anti-formorm wing Loong-X.
Military analysts reportedly consider Jiu Tian as a potential opponent to lead American UAVs, such as the RQ-4 Global Hawk and MQ-9 Reaper. While the global hawk works at higher altitudes with advanced reconnaissance capabilities, it lacks strike functionality. Meanwhile, Reaper is with a multiple roller drone, but carries less than half of Jiu Tian.
(Tagstotranslate) UNIwh Air vehicle
