The Jetank heavy unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) made its debut at Airshow China 2024, held in Zhuhai, Guangdong Province from November 12 to 17. This advanced drone, which can be equipped with various armaments including missiles, bombs, and smaller drones, is being called a "swarm carrier" due to its ability to deploy multiple smaller drones from its onboard module.
Weighing up to 16 tons at takeoff, the Jetank boasts a payload capacity of six tons and a wingspan of 25 meters, showcasing its capabilities as a next-generation utility platform. According to the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), it features eight hardpoints and a modular design that allows for rapid mission changes, enabling it to conduct a variety of operations such as airlifting, airdropping supplies, and engaging in electronic countermeasures.
Expert Fu Qianshao highlighted the Jetank's advanced situational awareness features, which include a radar system and an electro-optical pod, as well as its jet engine, which offers greater thrust compared to conventional propeller-driven drones. The aircraft was showcased alongside a range of armaments, including laser-guided bombs and anti-ship missiles, underscoring its adaptability and capabilities that rival those of modern fighter jets.
Additionally, the Jetank's innovative isomerism hive module allows it to carry several smaller drones, which can be deployed in swarms for various mission profiles. Wang Ya'nan, chief editor of Aerospace Knowledge, emphasized the potential of the Jetank for operational deployment in combat scenarios, particularly with the integration of cutting-edge AI technologies for enhanced effectiveness. The airshow, which attracted nearly 600,000 visitors, highlighted China's advancements in drone technology and military capabilities, with total deals reported at around $38.7 billion.
8 Comments
Muchacho
Ultimately, the Jetank is a symbol of China's growing technological prowess and its commitment to developing advanced solutions for the challenges of the 21st century.
Habibi
The Jetank's modular design is concerning. It makes it easier to adapt the drone for different types of warfare, including potentially against civilians.
Coccinella
The Jetank is a clear demonstration of China's commitment to national security. This drone will ensure that the country is well-equipped to defend its interests against any threat.
Africa
China showing off this drone technology at an airshow? Talk about flexing their military muscle. This isn't about peace, it's about power.
Comandante
The fact that this drone rivals fighter jets in terms of capabilities is a testament to China's technological advancements. This is a sign of their growing military power.
Michelangelo
The development of this drone shows that China is not interested in peaceful solutions to global problems. They are preparing for war.
Leonardo
Six tons of payload capacity for weapons? That's terrifying. This tech is only going to lead to more and more destructive warfare.
Stan Marsh
the glorification of violence, the pursuit of power at any cost, and the disregard for human life.