China's stealth drone completes first carrier landing on Sichuan

Xinhua reported Friday that the Chinese J.J.-21 aircraft, the nation’s first stealth unmanned aerial vehicle designed for reconnaissance and attack operations from ship decks, recently completed its initial takeoff and landing sequence aboard the "Sichuan." This vessel represents China’s inaugural Type 076 class amphibious assault ship.

Integration into military modernization

The successful test underscores Beijing’s efforts to integrate unmanned technology into its long-standing army modernization program. Through this initiative, China has developed advanced warships, fighter jets, missiles, and increasingly capable drone systems.

Xinhua characterized the trial as an "achievement" within China’s amphibious landing ship program. The agency stated the event demonstrates the Chinese Navy’s capacity to operate fixed-wing stealth drones from large maritime platforms.

Drone debut and ship specifications

The J.J.-21 made its public appearance during a military parade organized by Beijing last year to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, where various weapon types were displayed.

The "Sichuan," serving as the lead ship of the Type 076 amphibious assault class, was launched in December 2024. It is capable of carrying fixed-wing drones, helicopters, and amphibious equipment.

The vessel displaces more than 40,000 tons at full load. Its design features a flight deck spanning the length of the hull and a superstructure composed of two separate islands.

Recent naval activities

China Central Television reported Friday that the domestically developed ship conducted consecutive sea trials in late October, though it did not disclose the specific locations of these tests.

In April, the Chinese Navy announced that the Sichuan had sailed into South China Sea waters to perform scientific experiments and training missions. At that time, the Navy confirmed the deployment was a routine test and did not target any specific entity.