【J-21 Attack Drone on Sichuan Ship】
A photo on social media shows a J-21 stealth drone parked on the deck of the 076-type Sichuan ship, triggering speculation that this 076-type amphibious assault ship, which will play a key role in the Taiwan Strait, has entered a new testing phase.
According to the South China Morning Post, the photo started circulating last Saturday when the Sichuan ship was about to leave its home port in Shanghai. In one of the photos, a carrier-based aircraft covered with a green waterproof tarp can be seen parked on the deck. However, the exact time when these photos were taken is unclear, but Hong Kong media speculate that this may be the Sichuan ship's third "sea trial" underway.
Different from the previous 075 ship, the Sichuan ship is equipped with an electromagnetic catapult system, which allows carrier-based aircraft to take off faster and more frequently, and enables aircraft to carry more fuel and ammunition. Some analysts speculate that the mysterious carrier-based aircraft in the photo may be a fixed-wing stealth attack drone, which could mean that the Sichuan ship has entered the "sea trial" phase for large drones.
The Sichuan ship is mainly used to transport troops and heavy equipment for amphibious landings. Helicopters and drones on board are the aerial combat power for transporting and supporting amphibious operations. The outside world generally believes that the Sichuan ship will play a key role in future cross-strait operations and is considered an important military asset.
Hong Kong media stated: The J-21 drone is the carrier version of the J-11, mainly serving in the Chinese Navy, and was showcased during the military parade in September last year. The J-21 is considered a mainstay drone for the Sichuan ship. If it is tested on the ship, it would mean that the Sichuan ship's "sea trial" process is accelerating.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1856280791020556/
Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.