Home
Catalog
Attack & Multirole Drones (UAVs)
Jetank Drone Swarm Carrier

Jetank Drone Swarm Carrier

Manufacturer: Aviation Industry Corporation of China
Category: Attack & Multirole Drones (UAVs)
Add to Compare

Maximum Speed High subsonic
Endurance Medium
Operational Range Long
Payload Capacity Swarm UAVs

Full Specifications

1. General Information

Name	Jetank Drone Swarm Carrier
Manufacturer	Chinese Aerospace Industry
Country of Origin	China
Type / Role	Swarm Carrier UAV
First Flight / Introduced	2024
Status	Under Development
Unit Cost	Estimated USD 20–30 Million

2. Performance

Maximum Speed	High Subsonic
Operational Range	Long Range
Endurance	Several Hours
Service Ceiling	High Altitude

3. Dimensions

Length	Not Public
Wingspan	Not Public
Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW)	Classified

4. Payload & Armament

Payload Capacity	Multiple UAVs
Weapons	Loitering Munitions via Swarm
Sensors	EO Systems, Mission Radar
Avionics	AI Swarm Control

5. Propulsion

Engine Type

Jet Engine

6. Communication & Control

Control Type	Autonomous / Remote
Data Link Range	Satellite and LOS
Navigation	GPS / INS

7. Operational Use

Primary Users	PLA
Combat Proven	No
Notable Operations	ISR, Strike, EW

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

8.5

Technology 9 / 10
Performance 9 / 10
Combat Effectiveness 8 / 10
Operational Flexibility 8 / 10

PROS

Extends operational range of small drones
High speed jet propulsion improves survivability
Supports multiple mission types
Reduces risk to manned aircraft
Scalable swarm deployment options

CONS

High development and operating cost
Complex command and control requirements
Vulnerable to electronic warfare
Limited transparency on real world performance
Dependent on secure satellite links

Jetank Drone Swarm Carrier UAV

The Jetank drone swarm carrier marks a shift in how air forces plan future unmanned operations. Instead of flying alone, this jet powered platform is designed to carry, release, and manage groups of smaller drones in contested airspace.

Developed in China by state linked aerospace firms, Jetank is built to support long range strike, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions. Its core role is to act as an airborne launch and command node for drone swarms. This allows operators to extend reach while reducing risk to crewed aircraft.

Jetank uses a jet propulsion system that enables higher speed and faster penetration than turboprop UAVs. This speed allows it to approach defended zones, deploy multiple drones, and withdraw before enemy air defenses can respond. The carrier drone can release reconnaissance UAVs, loitering munitions, or electronic warfare drones depending on mission needs.

Key Capabilities and Technology

Jetank integrates autonomous flight control, networked command systems, and AI assisted swarm coordination. Once released, onboard systems manage drone spacing, routing, and task assignment. This reduces operator workload and improves response time during dynamic combat situations.

The platform supports beyond line of sight control using satellite data links. Its modular internal bay allows different drone types to be loaded without major airframe changes. Sensors include electro optical systems and basic radar for navigation and targeting support.

Operational Use and Strategic Value

For U.S. defense analysts, Jetank represents a growing challenge. Swarm carriers complicate air defense planning and strain interceptor resources. The system is well suited for saturation attacks, border surveillance, and suppression of enemy air defenses.

Jetank Drone Swarm Carrier Price

The Jetank Drone Swarm Carrier UAV does not have an official export price in U.S. dollars. Based on similar jet powered UAV platforms and swarm control systems, analysts estimate a unit cost in the low tens of millions USD, depending on payload and mission configuration.

Reviews

Be the first to add a Review

Please post a user review only if you have / had this product.
Your Name *
Your Email *
Review Title *
Review Text *
Rate this Product
Technology:

8
Performance:

8
Combat Effectiveness:

8
Operational Flexibility:

8
Average Rating 6 / 10 based on your selection

Disclaimer Note

The information provided on TheDefenseWatch.com is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to ensure the accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of our content regarding defense and aerospace products, technologies, and specifications, we cannot guarantee that all information is 100% accurate or up-to-date due to the evolving nature of military technology and classified data. TheDefenseWatch.com does not warrant the reliability, suitability, or availability of the information for any specific purpose. Users are advised to consult official sources, such as manufacturers, government publications, or defense agencies, for precise and verified data before making decisions based on our content. We are not affiliated with any defense manufacturers, governments, or military organizations mentioned. Opinions, reviews, and ratings reflect expert analysis but are subjective and should not be considered endorsements. TheDefenseWatch.com is not responsible for any errors, omissions, or consequences arising from the use of this website’s content. External links are provided for convenience and do not imply endorsement. TheDefenseWatch.com reserves the right to update or modify content without prior notice. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy & Cookies Policy.