China’s GJ-11 Sharp Sword strike and reconnaissance drone has been shown launching an air-to-air missile for the first time. Newly released footage captures the flying-wing aircraft firing a long-range PL-15E missile, revealing a combat role that goes beyond reconnaissance and strikes against ground targets.
Developed by HAIG, the GJ-11 incorporates stealth technology and is built around a flying-wing configuration. The drone is about 10 meters long and has a wingspan of roughly 14 meters. Its takeoff weight is estimated at around 10 tons, while internal weapon bays can carry up to two tons of payload.
The aircraft has a stated range of up to 4,000 kilometers and can remain airborne for about six hours.
Until now, the Sharp Sword had been viewed mainly as a platform for reconnaissance and precision attacks using guided bombs and missiles. The new footage indicates that the drone can also engage targets in the air, according to Voennoye Obozreniye.
The missile seen in the launch is the PL-15E, an export version of one of China’s most advanced long-range air-to-air weapons. It uses an active electronically scanned array radar guidance system designed to provide strong resistance to electronic interference and high targeting accuracy.
The PL-15E has an estimated launch range of 200 kilometers. It is also claimed to be capable of reaching hypersonic speed during the final phase of its flight.
Giving the GJ-11 an air-to-air capability is directly tied to China’s concept of unmanned wingmen operating alongside fifth-generation J-20 fighters. GJ-11 drones have previously been seen flying together with J-20 fighters and J-16D electronic warfare aircraft.
Two-seat variants of the J-20 are expected to serve as airborne command platforms capable of coordinating unmanned aircraft during combat operations.
Chinese media argue that combining reconnaissance and strike missions with the ability to fight aerial targets broadens the tactical use of drone groups and significantly increases the combat potential of aviation formations.