Zhuhai Airshow 2024
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Beijingwalker
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China unveils heavy 'swarm carrier' UAV at airshow
Large aircraft to carry smaller drones in long-distance missions: experts
By Liu Xuanzun, Fan Wei and Ma Jun in Zhuhai
Published: Nov 17, 2024 07:10 PM
A Jetank heavy unmanned aerial vehicle is on display at Airshow China 2024 in Zhuhai, Guangdong Province, from November 12 to 17. It can carry missiles, bombs and smaller drones. Photo: Liu Xuanzun/GT
China has showcased for the first time the Jetank heavy unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) at the Airshow China 2024, which wrapped up on Sunday. The large drone can not only carry missiles and bombs, but also smaller drones, earning it the nickname "swarm carrier."
The Jetank heavy drone, displayed at the outdoor static display area of the state-owned Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), has a maximum takeoff weight of 16 tons, a maximum payload capacity of six tons, and a wingspan of 25 meters, the Global Times learned from AVIC.
The drone is described as a next-generation large unmanned aerial utility platform. It has eight hardpoints and a heavy-load fast-switchable mission module, and it can carry out missions such as airlift, airdrop, information support, and countermeasures, as well as fire strike and support by switching different modularized payloads, AVIC said.
The drone is equipped with a radar system and an electro-optical pod at its nose, indicating outstanding battlefield situational awareness and remote control capability via satellite link, said Fu Qianshao, a Chinese military aviation expert, standing beside the Jetank at the airshow.
Fu also noted that the heavy drone is equipped with a jet engine on its back, instead of propellers commonly seen on other armed reconnaissance drones, to provide stronger thrust.
The Jetank is displayed with multiple types of payloads during its exhibit at the airshow, including laser-guided bombs, glide bombs, anti-ship missiles, and air-to-air missiles.
"This huge drone can carry a wide range of weapons and equipment comparable to those carried by modern fighter jets and bombers," Fu told the Global Times.
The heavy drone is also exhibited with an isomerism hive module.
This means that this drone can carry different types of smaller drones in this module, hence the term "isomerism." When released from the "hive" module, these smaller drones can form a swarm in the air for different missions, according to Fu.
According to models shown at the airshow, the module can house dozens of smaller swarm drones.
The module is interchangeable. A logistics transport module was also showcased alongside the drone.
Wang Ya'nan, chief editor of Beijing-based Aerospace Knowledge magazine, told the Global Times on Sunday that the Jetank demonstrates China's leadership in developing drone carriers.
The maximum takeoff weight of 16 tons means that the Jetank is comparable to a light fighter jet, and eliminating the need for a pilot and associated equipment, the Jetank swarm carrier drone has as many as six tons of capacity to carry smaller drones, Wang said. "Imagine several Jetanks in a formation flying across a long distance to a combat area and releasing a drone swarm. The drone swarm, incorporated with China's latest AI technologies, could achieve highly effective combat outcomes."
The smaller drones also serve various roles, such as reconnaissance, strikes, communications, and electronic warfare, according to Wang.
Wang said the Jetank has strong potential for operational deployment in the future.
The six-day Airshow China 2024, held in Zhuhai, South China's Guangdong Province, concluded on Sunday. Attracting nearly 600,000 visitors, the event facilitated deals worth 280 billion yuan ($38.7 billion), China Central Television reported.
Large aircraft to carry smaller drones in long-distance missions: experts
By Liu Xuanzun, Fan Wei and Ma Jun in Zhuhai
Published: Nov 17, 2024 07:10 PM
A Jetank heavy unmanned aerial vehicle is on display at Airshow China 2024 in Zhuhai, Guangdong Province, from November 12 to 17. It can carry missiles, bombs and smaller drones. Photo: Liu Xuanzun/GT
China has showcased for the first time the Jetank heavy unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) at the Airshow China 2024, which wrapped up on Sunday. The large drone can not only carry missiles and bombs, but also smaller drones, earning it the nickname "swarm carrier."
The Jetank heavy drone, displayed at the outdoor static display area of the state-owned Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), has a maximum takeoff weight of 16 tons, a maximum payload capacity of six tons, and a wingspan of 25 meters, the Global Times learned from AVIC.
The drone is described as a next-generation large unmanned aerial utility platform. It has eight hardpoints and a heavy-load fast-switchable mission module, and it can carry out missions such as airlift, airdrop, information support, and countermeasures, as well as fire strike and support by switching different modularized payloads, AVIC said.
The drone is equipped with a radar system and an electro-optical pod at its nose, indicating outstanding battlefield situational awareness and remote control capability via satellite link, said Fu Qianshao, a Chinese military aviation expert, standing beside the Jetank at the airshow.
Fu also noted that the heavy drone is equipped with a jet engine on its back, instead of propellers commonly seen on other armed reconnaissance drones, to provide stronger thrust.
The Jetank is displayed with multiple types of payloads during its exhibit at the airshow, including laser-guided bombs, glide bombs, anti-ship missiles, and air-to-air missiles.
"This huge drone can carry a wide range of weapons and equipment comparable to those carried by modern fighter jets and bombers," Fu told the Global Times.
The heavy drone is also exhibited with an isomerism hive module.
This means that this drone can carry different types of smaller drones in this module, hence the term "isomerism." When released from the "hive" module, these smaller drones can form a swarm in the air for different missions, according to Fu.
According to models shown at the airshow, the module can house dozens of smaller swarm drones.
The module is interchangeable. A logistics transport module was also showcased alongside the drone.
Wang Ya'nan, chief editor of Beijing-based Aerospace Knowledge magazine, told the Global Times on Sunday that the Jetank demonstrates China's leadership in developing drone carriers.
The maximum takeoff weight of 16 tons means that the Jetank is comparable to a light fighter jet, and eliminating the need for a pilot and associated equipment, the Jetank swarm carrier drone has as many as six tons of capacity to carry smaller drones, Wang said. "Imagine several Jetanks in a formation flying across a long distance to a combat area and releasing a drone swarm. The drone swarm, incorporated with China's latest AI technologies, could achieve highly effective combat outcomes."
The smaller drones also serve various roles, such as reconnaissance, strikes, communications, and electronic warfare, according to Wang.
Wang said the Jetank has strong potential for operational deployment in the future.
The six-day Airshow China 2024, held in Zhuhai, South China's Guangdong Province, concluded on Sunday. Attracting nearly 600,000 visitors, the event facilitated deals worth 280 billion yuan ($38.7 billion), China Central Television reported.
China unveils heavy 'swarm carrier' UAV at airshow - Global Times
www.globaltimes.cn
Beijingwalker
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New version of Y-20 transport aircraft: The Y20F100
Nov 17, 2024
Welcome to an in-depth exploration of the Y-20F100, the newest version of China’s renowned Y-20 transport aircraft, revealed at the 15th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition (Airshow China) in Zhuhai, Guangdong Province.
This innovative aircraft marks a significant leap forward in aviation technology, blending military-grade capabilities with advanced civilian applications.
The Y-20F100 is a large civilian transport aircraft currently under initial research and development. Its impressive specifications include a length of 54 meters, a wingspan of 50 meters, and a cargo hold spanning 27 meters in length.
With a maximum payload capacity of 65 tons, the Y-20F100 is designed to transport oversized engineering machinery, standard-sized civilian containers, pallets, and large goods.What sets the Y-20F100 apart is its incorporation of cutting-edge technologies, including a supercritical airfoil and fly-by-wire control systems, which enhance its aerodynamic efficiency and operational reliability.
These advancements highlight China’s ambition to establish itself as a leader in the global aviation industry.
At Airshow China, the Y-20F100 stood out among a lineup of debuting PLA aircraft, such as the PLAAF J-35A, PLAN J-15T, and J-15D. As part of the Aviation Industry of China (AVIC) pavilion, it symbolizes the nation’s progress in heavy transport aviation.
The Y-20 LegacyThe Y-20 program began in 2007 under China’s Medium-and Long-Term National Science and Technology Development Programme (2006–2020), spearheaded by Xi'an Aircraft Industry with design support from the Antonov Design Bureau.
Over the years, the Y-20 has evolved into several variants, including the Y-20B, equipped with WS-20 engines for improved range and payload, and the YY-20A, serving as a refueling tanker for PLAAF’s advanced fighter jets.
The Y-20 is renowned for its modular cabin, which can be reconfigured for parachuting, medical care, cargo transport, or personnel transport. Its adaptability, combined with the ability to operate in adverse weather conditions and on rough airfields, makes it invaluable for diverse missions—from troop deployments to humanitarian aid and disaster relief.
As the Y-20 continues to evolve, its significance extends beyond military utility. It has emerged as a symbol of China’s engineering excellence, strategic vision, and potential to contribute to global goodwill.
Alter_Ego
Registered Member
SteppeWolff
Trusted Member
Yes, it was the 4th T-50 Prototype.
Not only the fourth, but also a static test specimen no. 057, which acts since year as a mock-up for the planned Su-57E.
FuturePAF
THINK TANK: CONSULTANT
Was this show at this year’s Zhuhai?
If the speed can be increased, even at the expense of range, it would be more than a match for what India just tested, and a decent mini-SLBM option.
www.china-arms.com
If the speed can be increased, even at the expense of range, it would be more than a match for what India just tested, and a decent mini-SLBM option.
Unveiling the CJ-100: Redefining Long-Range Precision and Supersonic Missile Capabilities
The 2024 Zhuhai Airshow may have concluded, but new revelations continue to emerge. In a less prominent area of the exhibition, information boards about the CJ-10 and CJ-100 missiles were spotted, shedding light for the first time on the actual capabilities of these previously enigmatic weapons...
www.china-arms.com
Michael
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Yes.Was this show at this year’s Zhuhai?
If the speed can be increased, even at the expense of range, it would be more than a match for what India just tested, and a decent mini-SLBM option.
Unveiling the CJ-100: Redefining Long-Range Precision and Supersonic Missile Capabilities
The 2024 Zhuhai Airshow may have concluded, but new revelations continue to emerge. In a less prominent area of the exhibition, information boards about the CJ-10 and CJ-100 missiles were spotted, shedding light for the first time on the actual capabilities of these previously enigmatic weapons...
The CJ-100 (DF-100) has been in service for many years, but information about it was first revealed at this year's Zhuhai Airshow.
To be precise, it is a combination of a cruise missile and a ballistic missile. Part of its trajectory belongs to ballistic missiles, and part of its trajectory belongs to cruise missiles. Its trajectory curve has some similarities with that of the DF-17, but the trajectory altitude is completely different.
In China's arsenal, the DF-100 is in a rather awkward position. It has a longer range and higher accuracy, but its destructive power is not as good as that of the DF-26, and, its flight trajectory and flight speed are more easily intercepted than that of the DF-26. Therefore, some Chinese military fans analyze that it is about to be in the phase of retirement. Of course, this is just a military fan analysis, not an official official statement.
IMO. china will continue to develop and upgrade it. The R&D and upgrades will probably be in the direction of smaller size, faster flight speed, better penetration, and of course, the range will probably be shortened. In the future it may be decentralized from PLA Rocket Force to PLAGF.
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