A new Chinese supersonic spy drone appeared on leaked documents allegedly from the U.S. National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency.
This photo taken on June 4, 2019 shows the Chinese flag behind razor wire at a housing compound in Yangisar, south of Kashgar, in China's western Xinjiang region.
Based on these leaked files, the new high-speed UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) will soon be deployed by the Chinese government.
Reuters reported that the leaked U.S. document included satellite imagery (dating back to August 9, 2022) of the WZ-8 rocket-propelled reconnaissance drone.
Two drone units were seen at an air base around 350 miles from Shanghai.
As of writing, the Chinese government hasn't confirmed when will these drones become operational or if they are really planning on launching them.
New Chinese Supersonic Spy Drone Allegedly Being Developed
According to Business Insider's latest report, supersonic spy drones can reach high speeds (three times faster than the speed of sound).
A military vehicle carrying a WZ-8 supersonic reconnaissance drone takes part a military parade at Tiananmen Square in Beijing on October 1, 2019, to mark the 70th anniversary of the founding of the Peoples Republic of China. (Photo by GREG BAKER / AFP)
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Although this is an impressive capability, the WZ-8 drones are still slightly slower than the Lockheed Martin SR-72 Blackbird of the United States.
Aside from having high-speed capability, Chinese supersonic drones can be launched from bomber airplanes.
Experts said that these advanced UAVs can assist China when it comes to real-time mapping; allowing the government to gather the information that they can use in their geographical strategies.
WZ-8 Drones' Other Details
China introduced its advanced supersonic spy drones back in 2019.
These UAVs were unveiled at the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.
Speculations claimed that these drones were already functioning during that period.
Now, the leaked U.S. documents revealed that China already has flight paths for these supersonic UAVs.
If these drones are really launched in the near future, it would drastically improve the defenses or war activities of China.
As of writing, the Department of Defense and China's Ministry of National Defense haven't shared any statement regarding the supersonic drones.
You can click this link to learn more about these advanced WZ-8 rocket-powered drones.
Recently, Japan's announced its new bomb shelter bill, which will further enhance its defenses.
We also reported about the advanced F-16 drones; these can act as robotic wingmen for the U.S.-owned F-15 fighter jets.
For more news updates about drones and other defense innovations, always keep your tabs open here at TechTimes.
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