China's self-developed "Jiutian" UAV is expected to make its first flight at the end of June, drawing global attention.

French media: China's aerial "invisible giant on the verge of taking off"

The domestically developed "Jiu Tian" (Jiu Tian) UAV of China is expected to complete its first flight mission by the end of June this year. Its maximum flight altitude can reach 15,000 meters, and its endurance and payload capabilities have caught the attention of French journalists. French reporters said that the development of the Jiu Tian UAV reflects China's ambition to demonstrate its strength in the face of U.S. technological progress.

The payload capacity of the "Jiu Tian" UAV also draws attention. It has eight external suspension points, which can carry precision-guided bombs weighing 1,000 kilograms, as well as air-to-air missiles, air-to-surface missiles, anti-ship missiles, and loitering munitions. The "Jiu Tian" UAV is also called an "aerial UAV aircraft carrier". Why is it called this? Because it can integrate a mysterious "heterogeneous honeycomb mission cabin" in its fuselage. This mission cabin can accommodate more than one hundred loitering munitions or small UAVs.

French reporters said that these special features enable it to perform reconnaissance or attack missions in remote areas while avoiding the range of conventional surface-to-air missiles. Its super-long range makes it an important strategic asset, capable of continuous combat for several days.

French reporters said that the high-altitude long-range performance of the Jiu Tian aircraft gives it significant advantages in electronic warfare and surveillance. Therefore, it can monitor vast areas and collect key data needed for military operations. With these advantages and its potential strike capability, the Jiu Tian aircraft has become a key participant in the competition of cutting-edge military technology.

French reporters refer to China as an awe-inspiring, silent giant. French media said that this new UAV embodies Beijing's desire to display its strength on the international stage, especially in geopolitically tense regions. Although countries around the world are curious and have questions about the launch of the Jiu Tian UAV, this technological advancement has multifaceted and complex impacts.

Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1833951287727113/

Disclaimer: The article only represents the views of the author.