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China is set to launch a new high-altitude unmanned aircraft capable of releasing up to 100 kamikaze drones simultaneously, in what military observers say could mark a significant advancement in drone warfare technology. The aircraft, named Jiu Tan, which translates to “high sky,” was developed by Shaanxi Unmanned Equipment Technology and is designed to enhance the operational reach of the Chinese air force.

The aircraft’s most notable capability is its ability to deploy large-scale drone swarms mid-flight, potentially overwhelming enemy defenses by sheer volume and unpredictability. State-released video footage simulated the dramatic visual of a synchronized UAV launch sequence.

Drone swarms offer strategic advantages in surveillance, intelligence gathering, and real-time reconnaissance, particularly in contested regions such as the Taiwan Strait. Analysts warn that such a capability could play a central role in a future conflict scenario between China and Taiwan.

In addition to drone launches, the Jiu Tan can also be equipped with cruise missiles and air-to-air weapons like the PL-12E, further expanding its offensive potential.

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[-] ZephyrXero@lemmy.world 27 points 2 weeks ago
[-] geneva_convenience@lemmy.ml 10 points 2 weeks ago
[-] Codilingus@sh.itjust.works 0 points 2 weeks ago

You require additional lesbian gas.

[-] joeldebruijn@lemmy.ml 17 points 2 weeks ago

Wake me up when they get a drone droning drone drones ...

[-] tomkatt@lemmy.world 16 points 2 weeks ago

Ace Combat has entered the chat.

[-] Someonelol@lemmy.dbzer0.com 10 points 2 weeks ago

We're getting a real life Arsenal Bird! Here's hoping we make a Stonehenge to counter it.

[-] SuspiciousCatThing@pawb.social 8 points 2 weeks ago

I've trained for this. If someone gives me my f-22 and puts it on medium difficulty I might be able to speedrun it.

[-] TIN@feddit.uk 9 points 2 weeks ago

A drone drone?

Just wait 'til i fight back with my drone drone drone

[-] StarMerchant938@lemmy.world 4 points 2 weeks ago
[-] ArchmageAzor@lemmy.world 2 points 2 weeks ago

I would disagree.

I perfectly comprehend these horrors.

[-] tetris11@lemmy.ml 4 points 2 weeks ago
[-] Bernar_moustach@jlai.lu 4 points 2 weeks ago
[-] Almacca@aussie.zone 2 points 2 weeks ago

Make the most of it while it lasts!

[-] IndustryStandard@lemmy.world 3 points 2 weeks ago

Oh nice it is the thing from the movie https://youtu.be/9fa9lVwHHqg

[-] SippyCup@feddit.nl 3 points 2 weeks ago

Huh. Neat.

📸

[-] cygnus@lemmy.ca 2 points 2 weeks ago

What's the difference between this and missiles?

[-] geneva_convenience@lemmy.ml 7 points 2 weeks ago

Missiles are faster and harder to intercept, but drones are way cheaper.

[-] ArchmageAzor@lemmy.world 2 points 2 weeks ago

I would imagine drones are more agile too

[-] Vendetta9076@sh.itjust.works 6 points 2 weeks ago* (last edited 2 weeks ago)

Drones are far cheaper for one.

[-] baggins@beehaw.org 4 points 2 weeks ago

From the article:

'The aircraft’s most notable capability is its ability to deploy large-scale drone swarms mid-flight, potentially overwhelming enemy defenses by sheer volume and unpredictability. State-released video footage simulated the dramatic visual of a synchronized UAV launch sequence.

Drone swarms offer strategic advantages in surveillance, intelligence gathering, and real-time reconnaissance, particularly in contested regions such as the Taiwan Strait. Analysts warn that such a capability could play a central role in a future conflict scenario between China and Taiwan.

In addition to drone launches, the Jiu Tan can also be equipped with cruise missiles and air-to-air weapons like the PL-12E, further expanding its offensive potential.'

A big difference.

[-] Amnesigenic@lemmy.ml 1 points 2 weeks ago

Good for them

[-] Unsaved5831@lemm.ee 1 points 2 weeks ago

This makes me think of Howl's Moving Castle.

this post was submitted on 20 May 2025
69 points (97.3% liked)

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