China’s first carrier-based stealth reconnaissance and strike drone, the GJ-21, has successfully completed its initial take-off and landing on the Sichuan, the country’s first Type 076 amphibious assault ship, according to state media reports on October 30.

The milestone marks a significant step in Beijing’s ongoing efforts to integrate advanced unmanned systems into its naval capabilities as part of a broader military modernisation program. This initiative has seen China enhance its forces with new warships, fighter jets, missiles, and drone technology.

The GJ-21 stealth drone was first publicly revealed at a military parade in Beijing in 2025, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. Featuring a compact airframe smaller than the J-35 and J-20 stealth fighters, the drone reportedly offers a substantial combat range. Military analyst Zhang Xuefeng told state media that the GJ-21 combines low operational costs with reusability, distinguishing it from hypersonic missiles which are single-use. The drone is also capable of deploying small, low-cost glide-guided bombs, enhancing its effectiveness in sustained operations through improved fire delivery efficiency.

The Sichuan, launched in December 2024, serves as the lead vessel of China’s Type 076 amphibious assault ship class. The ship is equipped with an electromagnetic catapult and arresting gear system, allowing it to operate fixed-wing drones, helicopters, and amphibious equipment. It has a full-load displacement exceeding 40,000 tonnes and features a full-length flight deck along with a twin-island superstructure.

China’s state broadcaster CCTV reported that the Sichuan conducted a series of sea trials in late October, although it did not specify where these tests took place. Earlier in the year, China’s navy stated that the vessel had conducted scientific testing and training missions in the South China Sea, describing the operations as routine and not directed at any specific target.

The successful integration of the GJ-21 onto the Sichuan represents a notable development in China’s naval aviation capabilities, signaling enhanced operational flexibility for its amphibious assault ships through the deployment of carrier-based stealth drones.