Chinese Jiutian SS‑UAV drone preps for testing phase
The Chinese Jiutian SS-UAV drone, presented by AVIC, will soon begin testing, reports the Ukrainian portal Defense Express.
The Jiutian SS-UAV, developed by the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), is set to take flight for testing before its potential induction into the Chinese armed forces. The drone is expected to weigh about 33,000 lbs, with a wingspan of 82 feet. It has space inside for FPV drones intended for conducting swarm strikes.
Advanced armament of Jiutian SS-UAV
The Jiutian SS-UAV was first showcased in November 2024 at the Airshow China exhibition in Zhuhai. It boasts a maximum takeoff weight of 33,000 lbs, with a payload capacity of 13,200 lbs. The wingspan is 82 feet, and its length measures 52 feet. The drone is equipped with eight hardpoints, six of which can carry heavy weaponry, while two are designated for air-to-air missiles.
The Jiutian SS-UAV can be equipped with KD-88 anti-ship missiles that have a range of up to 124 miles, and the LY-V501, the Chinese counterpart of the American AGM-154 JSOW bomb, which can achieve a range of 81 miles when released from high altitude. This allows the drone to operate beyond the reach of medium-range air defense systems.
While the Jiutian SS-UAV may not be able to carry a large number of kamikaze drones—as some earlier online videos suggested it could hold up to 100 Shaheds—it still offers significant support capabilities to the Chinese armed forces. Its ability to carry modern weaponry makes it a valuable asset on the current battlefield.
