China’s military has developed what it claims is the world’s first unmanned aerial “mothership”, designed to deploy a swarm of armed drones during operations. This announcement was highlighted in state media, sparking mixed reactions globally, with some Western experts dismissing the news as mere propaganda.
The drone, named Jiu Tian, was showcased at a prominent Chinese air show in November last year. China has significantly invested in its drone capabilities to strengthen air dominance within the Indo-Pacific region, especially in light of tensions surrounding Taiwan, which Beijing considers a part of its territory.
Unlike other drones, the Jiu Tian is distinctive for its ability to launch up to 100 smaller unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) while in flight. With plans for its inaugural test flight soon, visuals released by Chinese Central Television depict the UAVs deploying in a coordinated manner. The mothership also enhances the communication and mission capabilities of these drones, expanding their operational range.
In addition to its drone deployment capability, the Jiu Tian can carry an arsenal of air-to-air, anti-ship, and air-to-ground missiles, along with guided bombs weighing up to 1000 kg. Powered by a turbofan engine, it can reportedly cover a distance of 7,000 km and soar to altitudes of up to 15,000 m.
Despite its advanced features, critics highlight the mothership’s considerable size as a potential disadvantage, making it a more considerable target for missile defence systems, including US-operated Patriot missiles. Tom Shugart, a military aviation expert with Archer Strategic Consulting, acknowledges the innovation behind the drone carrier but points out its vulnerabilities. He warns that it could be at risk from enemy aircraft or air defenses before it effectively deploys its drones, suggesting that while its development is intriguing, it will be crucial to monitor its progress and capabilities closely.
In summary, while the Jiu Tian presents an ambitious step in unmanned aerial warfare, its effectiveness and survivability in combat scenarios remain open to question amid evolving military technologies worldwide.