China Develops Own ‘Loyal Wingman’ to Rival US

[Starmix]

According to the report, in a move seen to rival the loyal wingman concept of the US, China has unveiled a new unmanned aerial system (UAS) designed to operate in tandem with its advanced fighter jets.

The report stated that China showcased it at the recent Zhuhai air show in southern China; the Feihong FH-97A is capable of leading swarms of smaller drones or acting as a companion wingman for Beijing’s stealth fighters, such as the J-20.

The report also stated that it can reportedly support confrontational, high-intensity, and long-lasting combat, and this is due to its enhanced weapons bay for both air-to-air and air-to-ground munitions.

Shanghai-based military analyst Ni Lexiong told Financial Times that the FH-97A drone meets the four major trends in the development of weapons: it is unmanned, miniaturized, intelligent, and stealthy.

In addition to serving as a drone wingman, the Feihong can be catapult-launched from aircraft carriers to support maritime operations. Despite its promising capabilities, several defense analysts believe it will take at least five years before China deploys the FH-97A at scale.


Source: Nextgen Defense

 

[kit_hung]

High-level maneuver from China to bring unmanned aircraft that work side by side with leading fighter jets. Gives them the ability to attack and conduct sleuth reconnaissance without risking the lives of their hero pilots in very dangerous areas.

 

[Starmix]

China has unveiled a new unmanned aerial system (UAS) designed to operate in tandem with its advanced fighter jets. It is a testament that many countries are evying the USA, thus, they are inventing their own to match the Loyal Wingman of America.