China Unveils New Large Flying-Wing Kamikaze Drone, PD-2900

A new twin-engine large flying-wing drone that bears a striking resemblance to kamikaze unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) used in the ongoing Russland–Ukraine conflict has been revealed by China, according to Interesting Engineering.

Long-Range Capabilities and Russian-Style Camouflage

The PD-2900, as it’s been dubbed, boasts impressive specifications. With a flight time of 12 hours and a range of up to 1,553 miles (2,500 kilometers), this drone can reach speeds of up to 155 miles per hour (250 km/h).

What’s particularly noteworthy is the drone’s camouflage paint scheme, which closely resembles that of the Russian 5th-generation multirole fighter Su-57. This design choice has raised eyebrows, especially given recent discussions between China and Russia about developing kamikaze UAV models comparable to the Shaheed-136/Geran-2 in terms of range and payload.

Advanced Features and Dual-Engine Design

The PD-2900 is constructed primarily from carbon fiber and composite materials, offering high structural strength while keeping weight to a minimum. It can be launched via catapult or rocket-assisted takeoff and is capable of fully autonomous flight along pre-planned routes.

With a payload capacity of up to 220 pounds (100 kg) of military equipment or devices, the PD-2900 significantly outperforms its predecessors. Its 42-gallon (160-liter) explosion-proof fuel tank enables its extended range.

“The PD-2900 appears to be designed as a dual-engine Shaheed kamikaze drone,” notes a Chinese source. “It boasts advanced features, improved aerodynamics, extended range, and a payload capacity of over 100kg, more than double the 40kg payload capacity of its predecessor.”

Changing Landscape of Drone Warfare

The development of the PD-2900 comes at a time when inexpensive ‘air power’ is dramatically reshaping modern warfare. The precision effects of UAVs on the Ukrainian battlefield have demonstrated the increasing importance of these platforms.

“Today, the reality is very different,” explains a military analyst. “In Ukraine, the operators of contemporary so-called ‘kamikaze’ drones huddle in trenches reminiscent of the Great War, under almost constant bombardment, using drones to locate their oppressors.”

DroneXL’s Take

The unveiling of China’s PD-2900 drone underscores the rapidly evolving landscape of unmanned aerial systems in military applications. As we’ve seen in recent developments in drone technology, the trend towards more sophisticated, long-range, and autonomous platforms continues to accelerate.

This development also highlights the ongoing arms race in Drohnen-Technologie, with various nations seeking to gain an edge in this crucial area of modern warfare. As always, it’s essential to consider the ethical implications and potential impacts on global security that such advancements bring.

Photo courtesy of X/front_ukrainian