01Marine Insight2026-10-31
China Achieves First Drone Takeoff And Landing Aboard An Amphibious Assault Ship (opens in a new tab)
China successfully conducted the first drone takeoff and landing from its amphibious assault ship, the *Sichuan*, using the GJ-21 strike and reconnaissance drone. This milestone highlights the Chinese navy’s capability to operate fixed-wing stealth drones from sea-based platforms, marking progress in its amphibious assault ship program. The GJ-21, a cost-effective and reusable drone, can carry weapons and glide-guided bombs, enhancing firepower efficiency. The *Sichuan*, a Type 076-class ship with electromagnetic catapults, supports both drones and helicopters and recently completed sea trials in undisclosed locations.