The Chinese Jiutian SS-UAV unmanned aerial vehicle, developed by AVIC Corporation, is preparing for its first flight, which is scheduled for June 2025. This was reported by The Economic Times. The drone was first shown at the Airshow China exhibition in November 2024.
This carrier drone is capable of carrying and launching up to 100 small drones, including kamikaze drones, and can also carry anti-ship missiles, glide bombs, and air-to-air missiles. A computer-generated video has surfaced online showing the Jiutian SS-UAV simultaneously launching a large number of kamikaze drones, modeled after the Iranian Shahed-136, highlighting its swarming capabilities.
The Jiutian SS-UAV has a wingspan of 25 meters, a maximum take-off weight of 16 tons, 6 of which are payload, and is also capable of flying at an altitude of 15 thousand meters. Its flight range is 7 thousand kilometers, and the autonomous mode of operation lasts up to 36 hours. The drone is equipped with quantum encrypted communication, a hydrogen engine, a stealth design and a drone swarm control system using artificial intelligence, which can be used to suppress enemy air defense systems.
The drone is equipped with a modular cargo bay, allowing it to perform various functions, including transporting cargo in difficult conditions, patrolling borders, emergency and rescue operations, and protecting maritime territories.
The Jiutian SS-UAV could become an important element of China's military strategy, providing reconnaissance, strike operations and electronic warfare. Its capabilities allow it to operate at long distances, remaining outside the range of most air defense systems. However, the drone's real combat effectiveness still needs to be verified during testing.