China Tests Stealth Drone as Advanced 'Drone Carrier' Warship Conducts Sea Trials

China is advancing its drone capabilities with flight tests of the GJ-21 stealth drone, a naval variant of the GJ-11 attack drone. This development coincides with the sea trials of the Type 076 Sichuan, China's most sophisticated amphibious assault ship, designed as the world's first dedicated drone carrier.

The GJ-21 drone, first publicly displayed at China's Victory Day parade last September, has made infrequent public appearances since. State broadcaster CCTV released computer-generated footage in July illustrating how the drone would be launched from the Type 076 Sichuan, highlighting the ship's role in supporting drone operations.

Recent social media posts have provided visual evidence of the GJ-21's flight tests. Videos shared on Thursday showed the drone flying over a highway service area in Huludao, Liaoning province. Another post from August 19 captured the drone flying over the same location from a different perspective. While the exact dates of these sightings are unclear, geolocation confirms the videos were taken at the specified service center, suggesting ongoing testing and validation of the drone's capabilities.

The series of sightings and the concurrent sea trials of the Type 076 warship underscore China's commitment to developing and integrating advanced unmanned aerial systems into its naval forces. This strategic focus aims to enhance its power projection and operational capabilities in the region.