Is Beijing planning to make more drones overseas for Middle Eastern buyers?

China's state-run North Industries Group Corporation (Norinco) showcased a model of a drone assembly line at the Eurosatory defense exhibition in Paris, suggesting the company's intent to expand drone manufacturing abroad. The display, labeled "Norinco defence localisation," signals a strategic move towards producing weapons overseas.

The miniature assembly line depicted the entire manufacturing process, from parts production to final testing, for several Norinco drones. Among the showcased models was the BZK-005E reconnaissance aircraft, which is reportedly operated in Indonesia, Mauritania, and Sudan. The display also included graphics detailing the production of explosives and propellants used in these drones.

In addition to the assembly line, Norinco presented other unmanned aerial vehicles. These included the CY-8 cargo drone, described by state media as the world's heaviest cargo drone with a 3.5-tonne payload capacity, and the Z-6B unmanned helicopter. Various loitering munitions were also on display, highlighting the breadth of Norinco's drone technology offerings.

The exhibition also featured a report on China's first Type 076 'drone carrier' amphibious assault ship, which has begun sea trials. This development underscores China's growing capabilities and ambitions in drone technology and naval power projection.