China unveils 'Jiu Tian' drone mothership ahead of first test flight

China's 'Jiu Tian' drone mothership to begin test flights in days

PLA's new unmanned aerial platform will deploy up to 100 combat drones in coordinated swarm attacks

China is preparing to launch the first test flight of its advanced drone mothership, the Jiu Tian or “Nine Heavens,” in a major escalation of its aerial combat capabilities. Designed by the Aviation Industry Corporation of China and built by Xi’an Chida Aircraft Parts Manufacturing, the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is engineered to release swarms of up to 100 smaller drones simultaneously, according to Chinese state media.

The new system is expected to become a key asset of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) air force, as Beijing aims to enhance its ability to overwhelm enemy air defences through coordinated drone tactics.

Long-range combat and multipurpose design

Once operational, Jiu Tian will offer a range of 7,000 kilometres and carry up to six tonnes of payload, including munitions and microdrones. It will operate at super-high altitudes, enabling strategic missions deep into contested territory.

A promotional animation circulated on X (formerly Twitter) shows the Jiu Tian deploying UAVs from both sides of its fuselage in synchronized formation attacks.

Although initially focused on combat roles, Chinese officials say the aircraft is designed for multi-role missions such as border defence, secure transport, and emergency rescue.

Rival to U.S. systems like the Global Hawk and Reaper

The Jiu Tian is being compared to American platforms like the RQ-4 Global Hawk and MQ-9 Reaper, yet with a distinct focus on drone swarm coordination, which could mark a new chapter in aerial warfare. Chinese analysts suggest that Jiu Tian’s large-scale swarm capability will serve as a force multiplier in conflict scenarios by disabling radar systems and saturating defensive networks.

The development is part of a broader military modernization push by China, intensifying global scrutiny, especially as tensions persist across the Taiwan Strait.

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Implications for Taiwan and regional security

The unveiling of Jiu Tian comes amid rising military pressure on Taiwan, which China considers a breakaway province. Beijing has not ruled out using force to bring the island under its control, a stance that has triggered international concern.

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te, in a recent address marking the 80th anniversary of World War II's end, warned that democratic nations are again facing authoritarian threats. “We share the same values and face similar challenges as many of the democracies that participated in the European war,” Lai said.

A shifting balance in aerial warfare

Military analysts argue that Jiu Tian could signal a shift in global aerial strategy, highlighting China's ambition to dominate next-generation drone warfare through autonomous systems and large-scale coordination.

With the test flight expected imminently, the international defence community will be closely watching how Jiu Tian performs—and what message it sends about the future of global military power.

Stay tuned to The Horizons Times for expert coverage on China's drone capabilities, U.S.–China military competition, and developments in aerial swarm warfare.