Defence
China Building World’s First ‘Dedicated’ Drone Carrier: Report
China has silently unveiled a groundbreaking development in naval technology: the world’s first dedicated drone carrier.
According to Naval News, this revelation comes as a result of satellite imagery analysis and insights from J Michael Dahm, an esteemed expert in aerospace and China studies. The clandestine construction of this aircraft carrier, undisclosed by Beijing, marks a significant stride in China’s military strategy, particularly in the utilization of drones in combat scenarios.
Satellite images from the Jiangsu Dayang shipyard on the Yangtze River unveil the covert construction of this new carrier, specifically engineered to accommodate fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
Distinguished by its unique features, this mystery vessel, launched in December 2022 but concealed until now, diverges from conventional US or Chinese aircraft carriers. Notably smaller in size, approximately one-third the length and half the width of its counterparts, it boasts an unconventional straight deck arrangement, preventing simultaneous takeoffs and landings.
Despite its compact stature, the carrier possesses ample width to support aircraft or drones with a wingspan of up to 20 meters, slightly smaller than World War II escort carriers but wider. Its design incorporates a runway along one side and an island superstructure on the other, while the hull adopts a distinct catamaran configuration.
Crucially, the low flight deck suggests the absence of a hangar below, further indicating its specialized purpose for drone operations. Moreover, its expansive flight deck is estimated to accommodate drones with wingspans of up to 65 meters, akin to China’s rendition of the US Predator drone.
Naval News also highlighted the shipyard’s history of constructing several high-tech target barges and two large drone motherships, which serve as opposing forces in training exercises, a role known as ‘Electronic Blue Force’. This history suggests that the new drone carrier could support similar missions.
Defence
Azerbaijan is Now the 4th Nation to Obtain JF-17 Fighters from Pakistan
Azerbaijan has officially inducted the JF-17 Block III aircraft, developed jointly by Pakistan and China, into its air force.
The presentation of this advanced fighter jet was made to President Ilham Aliyev, who also serves as the Supreme Commander-in-Chief of Azerbaijan, on September 25 at Heydar Aliyev International Airport.
Southwest Airlines Unveils 3-Year ‘Southwest. Even Better.’ Plan for Growth
This development comes at a crucial time when Azerbaijan is engaged in a tense standoff with its neighbor, Armenia, following its recent capture of the Nagorno-Karabakh region.
The acquisition of these fighter jets marks a significant shift in Azerbaijan’s defense strategy, moving away from its traditional arms supplier, Russia, and instead strengthening ties with Turkey and Pakistan. Meanwhile, Armenia has been deepening its defense ties with India, which is emerging as a key supplier for its military needs.
Top 10 Most Connected Low-Cost Carrier Airports in the World
Azerbaijan’s ambassador to Iran, Ali Alizada, confirmed the acquisition on social media platform X on Wednesday. Alizada, who has also served as an envoy to pakistan air force, revealed that the two countries had signed a $1.6 billion deal in February. Under this agreement, Azerbaijan will receive eight jf 17 aircraft from Pakistan, along with a supply of air-to-surface missiles.
The JF-17C Block III, co-produced by Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) and China Aviation Industry Corporation (AVIC), is a lightweight, multirole fighter jet with advanced air-to-air and air-to-ground combat capabilities. Known for its high maneuverability at medium and low altitudes, this jet will significantly bolster Azerbaijan’s air force capabilities.
Pakistan, a long-time supporter of Azerbaijan, especially in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, has further solidified its ties with this latest defense collaboration.
-
Aviation1 month ago
New EU Carry-On Rules Begin September 2024: What to Expect
-
Aviation2 weeks ago
Boeing confirms 797: A New Era for Mid-Size Aircraft
-
Airlines2 months ago
Air India Rolls Out A350s for Delhi-New York JFK and Newark Routes
-
Aviation2 weeks ago
Lockheed and Tata Team Up to Build C-130J MRO Facility in India
-
Tech3 weeks ago
China Developing Jet to Travel Anywhere in Two Hours
-
Aviation2 months ago
Meet WindRunner: The World’s Heaviest and Largest Aircraft Ever Built
-
Airport2 months ago
Top 10 Largest Airports in the World by Size
-
Aviation2 months ago
Comac C919 Moves Closer to Securing EU Certification with EASA