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.
Aviation
Boeing, Antonov to Collaborate on Defense Projects
– MOU represents Boeing’s commitment to work with Ukrainian industry
– Includes exploring opportunities for collaborating on in-country support of Unmanned Aerial Systems
A Memorandum of Understanding was signed today by Boeing and Antonov Company to investigate potential collaboration on defense-related projects.
“We’re happy to keep collaborating with the Antonov Company to help Ukraine’s economic development and expansion,” stated Ted Colbert, CEO and president of Boeing Defence, Space, & Security.
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“This agreement demonstrates our ongoing efforts to find more opportunities to work with Ukrainian industry, which was underscored by our signing of the Ukrainian Defence Industry Compact earlier this year.”
The areas of potential collaboration identified in the agreement consist of training, logistical support and overhaul services for tactical Unmanned Aerial Systems utilized by the Ukrainian Armed Forces, which includes the ScanEagle. In addition, the companies will also explore opportunities for Antonov to provide engineering support to Boeing.
The six largest cargo aircraft ever built in the aviation industry:Click here
“A strong, innovative, and efficient defense industry is key to sustainable economic development and national security, and we are extremely excited to collaborate with Boeing,” said Ievhen Gavrylov, CEO of Antonov Company.
This agreement brings a whole new level of opportunity to implement the latest and most effective solutions – in addition to the possibility of future projects with Boeing in the aerospace and defense industry.”
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