China deploys world’s largest drone mothership with 4,500-mile range, 100-UAV payload

Jiu Tian Takes Flight: China’s 7,000 KM Range Drone Mothership to TEST Before People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Ranks

China’s advanced drone mothership, Jiu Tian, is scheduled for its first mission by the end of June, marking a major leap in UAV capabilities for the People’s Liberation Army (PLA). Equipped with a 7,000 km range and ability to fly above most defense systems, Jiu Tian can carry up to 6 tonnes of ammunition or deploy up to 100 small kamikaze drones from its dual payload bays. Developed by AVIC, its innovative “Isomerism Hive Module” allows mid-air drone launches, boosting PLA’s swarm tactics and battlefield dominance.