China has conducted the inaugural flight of the 'Jiutian' aircraft, the first unmanned aerial vehicle capable of transporting up to 100 drones.

China conducted the inaugural flight of the 'Jiutian' on Thursday, the first drone carrier aircraft, measuring 16.35 meters in length and 25 meters in width. Designed by the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), the aircraft has a maximum takeoff weight of 16 tons and a payload capacity of 6,000 kilograms, operating for up to 12 hours with a range of up to 7,000 kilometers. The 'Jiutian' is intended for various civil missions, including heavy cargo deliveries, emergency communications, and disaster assistance.

It can also carry up to 100 small drones, including kamikaze drones, and is equipped for surveillance and electronic warfare missions. The inaugural flight highlights China's advancements in the development of advanced military technologies, part of President Xi Jinping's strategy to build 'world-class' armed forces by 2049.