China has indeed flown a very large unmanned “drone mothership” called Jutian (also referred to as Jetank), designed to launch swarms of smaller drones in mid-air, and it has a maximum takeoff weight of about 16 metric tons.
What this drone is
Jiutian is a jet-powered, long-endurance UAV developed by China’s Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) and made its maiden flight in Shaanxi Province around 11 December 2025.
Chinese and international reports describe it as an “airborne UAV carrier” or drone swarm mothership, capable of deploying large numbers (over 100 in some briefings) of smaller drones or loitering munitions from internal bays and underwing hardpoints.
Size and capabilities
The aircraft is roughly 16.3 m long with a 25 m wingspan, 16-ton maximum takeoff weight, and around 6 tons payload, with up to 12 hours endurance and about 7,000 km ferry range.
It is intended for both civil and military roles, including long-range cargo, emergency communications, disaster relief, surveillance, and, in a military context, swarm attacks, electronic warfare, and long-range strike support.
Author: Saikat Bhattacharya
