China and Taiwan are at odds after China showed a new long-range kamikaze drone. The drone, which was created by one of China’s biggest defense contractors, Norinco (North Industries Group Corporation Limited), has a number of advantages over the comparable U.S. weapon, the Switchblade 600. The Chinese drone has a 200-kilometer range, a 90-mph (144-kph) cruise speed, and a 105-minute flight duration. It is a versatile and potentially lethal weapon since it may hover close to a target before striking.
By contrast, the U.S. Switchblade 600 can travel up to 50 miles (80 km) at a maximum range of 68 mph (110 kph), with a flying duration of 40 minutes. Although it can reach 115 mph (185 kph) during an attack, its overall endurance and range are significantly less than that of Norinco’s drone. The Chinese team asserts that they have improved the design to extend flight time and boost efficiency, especially with regard to the foldable two-blade propeller.
Norinco, based in Xian, employs 20,000 people and has contributed to the city’s development, building schools, hospitals, and infrastructure. Their research team highlighted that loitering munitions like these drones merge the advantages of missiles and unmanned aircraft, offering long flight times, wide operational ranges, and versatile use in combat.
The drone’s potential to reach Taiwan presents a serious strategic threat. If China produces these drones in large numbers, they could alter the balance of power in the region, particularly as the United States plans to defend Taiwan with mass-produced, low-cost drones under its “Replicator” program.
While the performance of Chinese drones is sometimes questioned due to the lack of combat experience by the People’s Liberation Army, the use of Chinese-made drones in conflicts like Ukraine has boosted global confidence in their capabilities. However, China has begun limiting the export of its drones to curb their military use in ongoing conflicts.