China May Deploy Stealth Drones Against Taiwan's Swarm Boat Attacks, Military Magazine Suggests

South China Morning Post reports on a potential new dimension in the cross-strait military dynamic, highlighting a suggestion from a Chinese military magazine for employing advanced stealth drones against Taiwan. The article details how the People's Liberation Army (PLA) might leverage the GJ-21 stealth attack drone, a naval variant of the GJ-11 'Sharp Sword,' to counter Taiwan's potential adoption of Ukraine-inspired swarm boat tactics. This proposed strategy underscores the evolving nature of modern warfare and the increasing role of unmanned systems.

The commentary in Defence Review, as cited by SCMP, emphasizes the GJ-21's capabilities, noting its long endurance and high maneuverability as critical advantages against a swarm of unmanned surface vessels (USVs). The drone's deployment from advanced platforms like the Fujian aircraft carrier and the Type 076 amphibious landing ship, equipped with electromagnetic catapults, signifies China's commitment to developing and integrating cutting-edge naval aviation technology. This focus on naval power projection and technological superiority is a key aspect of Beijing's military modernization efforts.

“

if Taiwan sends a swarm of uncrewed combat boats across the strait – a strategy inspired by Ukraine – Beijing could counter with its GJ-21 stealth attack drones.

From the perspective of Taiwan and its allies, this development is significant. Taiwan's defense strategy has long centered on asymmetric warfare, often described as a 'porcupine' strategy, designed to deter a larger, conventionally superior adversary like the PLA. The potential introduction of stealth drones capable of neutralizing swarm attacks adds another layer of complexity to this strategic calculus. It raises questions about the effectiveness of Taiwan's current defenses and the ongoing arms race in the region.

This report, originating from Hong Kong-based SCMP, provides a glimpse into the strategic thinking within China's military circles. It illustrates how Beijing is contemplating responses to potential threats and adapting its military doctrine to incorporate new technologies. The emphasis on the GJ-21 drone highlights China's ambition to achieve technological parity, and in some areas, superiority, in its military capabilities, particularly in the context of the sensitive cross-strait relationship.

“

The GJ-21 has long endurance and high manoeuvrability, which would give it a critical advantage against a “game changing” swarm attack by unmanned surface vessels.