China's New Stealth Drone Spotted For The First Time Amid Speculation Over Next-Gen Bomber Project

A new Chinese stealth drone, possibly a prototype for a next-generation unmanned bomber, has been spotted flying for the first time, fuelling speculation about Beijing’s growing long-range strike capabilities, the SCMP has reported.

A video circulating on Chinese social media since October 19 shows a large, flying-wing “cranked-kite” drone, unofficially dubbed the GJ-X, taking flight. Defence analysts believe it is the same aircraft seen earlier in satellite imagery from China’s Malan airbase in Xinjiang, first reported by The War Zone.

The aircraft’s wingspan is estimated at around 42 metres, placing it in a rare class of stealth unmanned systems roughly comparable in size to the U.S. Air Force’s B-21 Raider, a next-generation stealth bomber designed for both nuclear and conventional missions.

While the drone’s exact role remains unclear, military observers suggest it could represent a strategic-level unmanned combat aircraft or even an unmanned stealth bomber.

Chen Xi, a commentator for Shenzhen TV, described it as “a medium-range strategic bomber,” noting that its scale places it between China’s existing drones and the long-awaited H-20 stealth bomber, which has yet to be unveiled.

Imagery of the aircraft indicates features similar to the American B-2 Spirit, including split rudders and what appears to be a twin-engine configuration. Analysts say the design may offer both endurance and stealth advantages, hinting at China’s ambitions to develop autonomous systems capable of long-range precision strike.

The GJ-X bears similarities to the CH-7 (Caihong-7) drone displayed at last year’s Zhuhai Air Show, though it appears significantly larger. Its emergence follows a major military parade in Beijing last month, where China showcased seven new unmanned systems, including reconnaissance-strike drones, “loyal wingmen,” and carrier-based UAVs.