Overview

• Jiu Tian, China's long-range, high-altitude UAV, is scheduled for its first mission by the end of June 2025, as confirmed by state broadcaster CCTV.
• The drone carrier can deploy up to 100 smaller UAVs, including kamikaze drones, to execute coordinated swarm operations.
• With a 7,000 km range and 15,000 m ceiling, Jiu Tian is designed for diverse roles, from military strikes to disaster relief, enabled by its modular interior.
• The UAV's potential deployment near the Taiwan Strait raises strategic concerns among U.S. allies about China's growing military capabilities.
• Developed by Shaanxi Unmanned Equipment Technology, Jiu Tian builds on global drone swarm concepts, highlighting an intensifying UAV arms race.