China is preparing to launch the first mission of its sophisticated drone carrier Jiu Tian, also referred to as the “drone mothership.” Based on Chinese state media, the plane should be going on its first mission by the end of June, starting a series of test phases prior to its official deployment by the People’s Liberation Army.
The schedule was announced by state broadcaster CCTV this week. Media reports say that this first-of-its-kind mission is to start a series of tests, most prominently its capability as a long-range unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV).
What Is the Jiu Tian?
Jiu Tian, which is translated as “high sky,” was unveiled publicly for the first time in the Zhuhai air show in November 2024. The aircraft was developed by Shaanxi Unmanned Equipment Technology and is intended to execute a broad range of military and emergency missions.
The drone has remarkable specs: it has a top height of 15,000 metres and a flight range of 7,000 km. It can carry a take-off weight of 16,000 kg and carries up to 6,000 kg, according to Telegraph UK, which enables it to deliver surveillance equipment as well as ammo.
Can Fire 100 Kamikaze Drones at Once
What distinguishes Jiu Tian is that it can launch massive quantities of drones at a time. News points out that the aircraft can simultaneously fire 100 kamikaze drones, which makes it a tactical force multiplier during combat operations.
Secondly, Chinese government media published video evidence that the UAV can carry cruise missiles and medium-range air-to-air missiles such as the PL-12E.
The platform also features a rapid reconfiguration system. Its manufacturers aver that this capability allows it to beconfigured for diverse missions such as military attack, border patrol, maritime patrol, emergency rescue, and even public security patrols.
India Responds with Bhargavastra Test
Following increased drone threats and tensions in the region, India has just tested a new anti-drone system called Bhargavastra. The test was last week from Odisha’s Gopalpur, after a string of Pakistani drone intrusions.
These drone strikes are said to have taken place across the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir, as also the international border in the northern and western sectors. They were intercepted and destroyed by Indian air defense systems.
India’s successful test of low-cost counter-drone solution Bhargavastra follows these hostilities, especially after Operation Sindoor that caused a sharp spike in cross-border aerial threats.
