China is clearly preparing a high—profile stunt for its next major military parade - and it's not about new tanks or missiles. This time, attention is focused on new drones, which can be a real breakthrough in aviation. According to satellite intelligence and analysts, mock—ups or even real samples of "loyal wingman" type drones are involved in the preparation for the march - the very ones that should fly in conjunction with manned fighters and make them many times more efficient.
What is a "loyal follower"?
Imagine a fifth-generation fighter, for example, the famous J—20 - fast, unobtrusive, powerful. Now imagine that one, two, or even three drones are flying behind him, which he fully controls. These drones can:
- Fly ahead and scout the area, risking yourself instead of the pilot.
- Carry additional missiles and expand the fighter's ammunition.
- Create interference, distract enemy air defenses, or even attack targets autonomously — at the command of the pilot.
Drones like "smart wings" or digital shadows. They are also called Loyal Wingman — "loyal wingman". This concept is being actively developed by the USA, Australia and other countries. And now China is entering the home stretch.
Commercial satellite images taken near the training ground where the parade rehearsals are taking place show several unidentified medium-sized UAVs. They are stored under canopies, but their outlines are recognizable: an elongated fuselage, a low—lying wing, hidden air intakes - all this indicates low visibility and high aerodynamics. Some experts compare them to the Australian MQ-28 Ghost Bat, but with the characteristic features of the Chinese design.
What is important is that there are no conventional launch systems next to them, like those of tactical drones. This means that they are most likely not just scouts, but full-fledged combat units designed to work as part of an air group.
Why would China do that?
The answer is simple: to seize the initiative in the air war of the future. Modern fighter jets are becoming too expensive and complex. But slave drones are cheaper, consumable, but at the same time very dangerous in mass. One pilot can control several of these machines, turning one aircraft into an entire combat network.
If China really shows these drones at the parade, it will be a serious signal to the world:
"We are not only copying, we are creating our own advanced systems. And we are ready for war in a new reality, where artificial intelligence and autonomy play a crucial role."
Chinese military parades are not just a show of force. This is a strategic show designed for an internal audience and external observers. Showing new weapons at such events is a way of saying:
"Look, we have this."
"And we can scale it."
"Don't underestimate us."
If the "loyal slaves" appear in the ranks — even in the form of mockups — it will mean that the program is in the final stage of testing. Or perhaps she has already passed the first flight tests with the J-20 or other fighters.
China is no longer just a "player" in the military technology race — it is becoming a leader in some areas. And if everyone used to look at the F-35 and Skyborg, now they will have to study closely what Chengdu and its partners are doing.
The future of air warfare is in human + drone bundles.
And, apparently, China is already there.
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