China is preparing to launch its cutting-edge drone carrier, Jiu Tian,100 UAVs in Test Flight Countdown

Report by Safarti Tarjuman International Desk

China is preparing to launch its cutting-edge drone carrier, Jiu Tian — meaning “Nine Heavens” — for its first test flight in the coming days, marking a significant advancement in its unmanned aerial capabilities, according to Chinese state broadcaster CCTV.

The high-altitude drone mothership is designed to deploy swarms of up to 100 smaller drones simultaneously. These drone formations are engineered to coordinate mid-flight, enabling them to penetrate and overwhelm complex enemy air defense systems.

Strategic Design and Capabilities

Developed by the state-run Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) and manufactured by Xi’an Chida Aircraft Parts Manufacturing, Jiu Tian has a maximum range of 7,000 kilometers and a payload capacity of six tonnes. The unmanned aircraft is powered by a jet engine and is expected to support a wide range of missions, including:

• Tactical drone deployment
• High-security transport
• Border surveillance
• Emergency response and rescue operations

A promotional video aired by CCTV illustrates the drone’s ability to launch multiple UAVs from each side of its fuselage, highlighting its role as a force multiplier in aerial warfare.

The unveiling of Jiu Tian also aligns with China’s increasing military activities around Taiwan, raising concerns among regional observers and international defense analysts.

Beijing’s rollout of next-generation defense technologies is being closely monitored, especially as tensions grow in the Taiwan Strait. China considers Taiwan a breakaway province and has not ruled out the use of force to bring the island under its control.

As the first test flight of Jiu Tian approaches, its success could mark a turning point in the evolution of drone warfare and further shift the balance of power in regional and global security dynamics.