China’s GJ-11 UCAV demonstrates shipborne capability

China has confirmed that its Hongdu GJ-11 unmanned combat air vehicle (UCAV) successfully executed takeoffs and landings from an amphibious assault ship. This demonstration occurred aboard the CNS Sichuan, a new class of vessel operated by the Chinese naval forces. The defense ministry reported that the UCAV was able to operate directly from the ship's deck. Images and video footage documenting this event have been released following the successful trials. This represents a significant advancement in China’s development of carrier-borne unmanned systems.