First identified via satellite imagery in August 2025 and later seen in flight footage on October 19, the aircraft’s design and scale suggest it could serve as a long-range unmanned stealth bomber with strike and reconnaissance roles.

Advanced Design and Stealth Features

The GJ-X features a cranked-kite flying-wing design optimized for radar evasion, similar to the U.S. B-2 Spirit.

Its split rudders enhance control, while a counter-shaded underside paint scheme helps disguise its silhouette during flight.

• Wingspan: ~42 meters (137 feet), placing it close to the B-21 Raider’s size and far larger than earlier Chinese UCAVs.
• Engines: Believed to use twin jet engines with recessed exhausts to cut infrared signature.
• Range/Endurance: Estimated 7,000 km range and 15–20 hours of endurance.
• Payload: Capable of carrying precision weapons such as the JL-1 air-launched ballistic missile or YJ-21 hypersonic anti-ship missile.
• Configuration: Single dorsal intake and rear exhaust, optimized for aerodynamic stealth.

Analysts say its large size and low-observable profile make it suitable for deep-strike or nuclear deterrence missions, potentially complementing or replacing some manned bomber tasks.

Testing and Development in Xinjiang

Satellite imagery from Planet Labs (August 14, 2025) first revealed the GJ-X at Malan Air Base, a test site known for experimental UAV programs. Follow-up videos posted online in mid-October showed the aircraft taking off and maneuvering—its first confirmed flight.

The program fits into a wider modernization drive that has produced multiple stealth aircraft prototypes, including the J-36 and J-XDS fighters.

The GJ-X appears to be an evolution of the CH-7 “Rainbow” UCAV, incorporating refinements such as an extended nose for improved aerodynamics and larger internal bays for weapons or sensors.

Strategic and Global Implications

Observers compare the GJ-X to U.S. stealth drones such as the X-47B and the RQ-180, with multi-role potential in surveillance, strike, and electronic warfare.

Though smaller than the U.S. B-21 Raider, the GJ-X’s unmanned design provides efficiency advantages and eliminates pilot risk during long-range missions.

Strategically, the drone strengthens China’s ability to project power far from its borders and operate in contested airspace without relying solely on manned bombers like the rumored H-20.

Beijing’s ongoing development of stealth UCAVs, including reports of an even larger 52-meter-wingspan variant, reflects its accelerating push to match or surpass Western airpower in the coming decade.