Fresh GJ-11 footage gives a glimpse of weapon bay on China’s next-gen drone

China has unveiled fresh footage of its upcoming GJ-11 stealth combat drone, providing a glimpse into the advanced features of the next-generation unmanned aircraft. The images, reported by state broadcaster CCTV ahead of the 77th anniversary of the People's Liberation Army Air Force, reveal the drone's large internal weapon bay, which can accommodate sizable missiles while preserving its stealth capabilities.

The footage also showcases the drone's shielded jet nozzle, low-visibility coating, and a faceted optical window beneath its nose, reminiscent of the advanced electro-optical targeting system found on the J-20 stealth fighter.

Known as the Xuanlong, or Dark Dragon, the GJ-11 features a flying wing design and is the air force's inaugural stealth combat and reconnaissance unmanned aerial vehicle. Unveiled in 2019 during a military parade commemorating the 70th anniversary of the People's Republic of China, the drone is anticipated to enter operational service by 2025.

The footage also highlights the drone's ability to operate in coordination with other unmanned platforms and manned aircraft, acting as eyes for fighter jets or decoys to draw enemy fire. During its first live-fire test, the drone nearly missed its target due to thick cloud cover, but successfully located and hit the target after circling back for a second pass, according to the report.

The integrated control station for the GJ-11 and its operators can be deployed flexibly and transported aboard military transport aircraft when necessary. The drone has undergone numerous tests at a desert facility in northwestern China, with the air force's base in Malan, Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, believed to be a hub for new drone development and testing.

Additionally, the GJ-11's carrier-based variant, the GJ-21, recently demonstrated its capabilities by successfully conducting take-off and landing operations aboard the Sichuan, a Type 076 amphibious assault ship.