| Name | WJ-700 |
| Manufacturer | China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Type / Role | Strike / ISR UAV |
| First Flight / Introduced | Early 2020s |
| Status | Under Development / Limited Service |
| Unit Cost | USD 8 to 12 Million (Estimated) |
| Maximum Speed | ~620 km/h |
| Cruise Speed | ~500 km/h |
| Operational Range | ~2,800 km |
| Endurance | Up to 20 hours |
| Service Ceiling | ~45,000 ft |
| Length | ~10.5 m |
| Wingspan | ~20 m |
| Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW) | ~3,500 kg |
| Payload Capacity | ~700 kg |
| Hardpoints | 4 to 6 |
| Weapons | Guided bombs, air to surface missiles |
| Sensors | EO/IR, SAR, laser designator |
| Engine Type | Turbofan engine |
| Control Type | Remote and autonomous |
| Data Link Range | Line of sight and satellite |
| Navigation | GPS and INS |
| Primary Users | China (expected) |
| Combat Proven | No |
| Notable Operations | Maritime strike, ISR, precision attack |
The WJ-700 is a jet powered strike and reconnaissance drone developed to fill a gap between slow endurance UAVs and manned combat aircraft. Designed for long range precision attack, it combines higher speed with the ability to carry guided weapons, making it suitable for contested airspace and time sensitive targets.
The drone is developed by the China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation, a major state owned defense manufacturer. It was publicly revealed in the early 2020s and is aimed at both domestic use and export markets. The WJ-700 is built for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and strike missions, with a focus on maritime strike, border security, and deep strike roles.
Unlike propeller driven UAVs, the WJ-700 uses a turbofan engine, allowing it to fly faster and at higher altitudes. This improves survivability and reduces response time. It features a sleek airframe with a V tail and a dorsal air intake, optimized for long range flight and stable weapons release.
The WJ-700 can carry a mix of air to surface missiles and guided bombs on multiple hardpoints. It is designed to launch standoff weapons, allowing it to strike defended targets while remaining outside enemy air defenses. The onboard sensor suite includes electro optical and infrared systems, synthetic aperture radar, and satellite communications for beyond line of sight control.
Operationally, the WJ-700 is intended to support naval operations, conduct anti ship strikes, and perform long duration patrol missions. Its speed and payload place it closer to a light unmanned combat aircraft than a traditional surveillance drone.
The WJ-700 High Speed Strike Drone does not have an official public export price. Based on comparable jet powered strike UAVs, analysts estimate a unit cost between USD 8 million and USD 12 million, depending on sensors, weapons, and support systems.
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