On December 11, 2025, the world’s first drone mothership “Jutian” made its first flight in the Pucheng area of Shaanxi Province, China. This large, remote-controlled jet can carry up to 100 drones and launch them into the sky to reach distant targets. Chinese military aviation analyst Fu Qianshao noted that it can take off with a payload of more than 13,200 pounds and has a wingspan of 82 feet, allowing it to carry more weapons and equipment than modern fighters and bombers. It designated hardpoints for missiles and bombs above 100 drones.
Originally revealed at the Zhuhai Air Show in late 2024, the first flight more than a year later opens up a lot of possibilities for the Chinese Navy. With a focus on long-range ballistic missiles and a fleet of fighter jets with deep-sea combat capabilities, China is looking for ways to increase the range of its air forces. An army of drones coming from multiple directions will be difficult for the opposition to deal with. However, for now, the Jutian is likely to play a more support role in China, such as transporting heavy cargo to remote areas and providing emergency support during natural disasters.
Read more: The 10 largest navies in the world, ranked by self-reported total naval assets
China expands drone combat concept
Jui Tian’s First Flight – Stealth Marvel/YouTube
China has recently been expanding the use of drones in various branches of the military. Jui Tian is remotely piloted via satellite data link, capable of transporting drones or other payloads over short distances, with a 12-hour endurance. However, China has many long-range drones in the testing phase, which will further shake up air combat and defense.
The concept of the GJ-11 “Sword” unmanned stealth bomber has been around since 2018. The goal is that over time the aircraft will become fully autonomous. China has also been testing the CH-7 unmanned high-altitude stealth reconnaissance aircraft due to arrive in the 2030s, with the goal of supporting the operations of the People’s Liberation Army Navy and Air Force. Earlier this year, images emerged of an unmanned stealth aircraft that appeared to be designed to carry out infiltration missions by expertly smashing radar signals. And it’s not just in the air – China recently demonstrated an unmanned underwater drone system designed to evade sonar detection.
Want to stay up to date on the latest tech and automotive trends? Sign up for our free newsletter to get the latest headlines, expert guidance and how-to tips, one email at a time. You can also add us as your preferred search source on Google.
Read the original article on SlashGear.
