The Changchun Institute of Optics Fine Mechanics and Physics (CIOMP) developed a sophisticated drone airship, according to Chinese researchers, that detects stealth aircraft from distances reaching 1,240 miles (2,000 km). The high-altitude drones with infrared sensors present a major threat to stealth technology because they can detect American fifth-generation jets, including the F-35 and F-22.
The drone operates from the stratosphere using infrared detection instead of radar, which stealth aircraft aim to avoid. The CIOMP team conducted thermal signature evaluations on simulated combat engagements of stealth jets over the region of Taiwan. The radar-absorbing coatings applied to the aircraft maintained its airframe temperature at 7.85°C (46°F) on average, thus minimizing traditional detection methods. The engine plumes of jets generated mid-wave infrared radiation that reached temperatures exceeding 1000 Kelvin, thus becoming easily detectable across the 2.8-4.3 micrometer wavelength spectrum.
Scientists used mercury-cadmium-telluride detectors to build surveillance systems, which they installed on unmanned airships with 300mm aperture telescopes. The airships operated at 12.4 miles (20 km) altitude to conduct passive aircraft monitoring of stealth aircraft while they were in side or rear positions. The frontal detection capability of these aircraft reached only 217.5 miles (350 km) because of their decreased heat signature.
The accurate information indicates China’s new airship surveillance system would create major difficulties for stealth aircraft operations. Multiple drones operating together would establish an early warning network over critical regions, which would make US stealth capabilities less dominant. These drones promise to transform contemporary aerial warfare because of their affordable price and extensive operational endurance. They create opportunities to simplify stealth aircraft tracking and reduce their capability to operate undetected.
 developed a sophisticated drone airship, according to Chinese researchers, that detects stealth aircraft from distances reaching 1,240 miles (2,000 km). The high-altitude drones with infrared sensors present a major threat to stealth technology because they can detect American fifth-generation jets, including the F-35 and F-22. […]&media=https://wonderfulengineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/us-growler.jpg.webp){kind=link}