In August 2024, satellite images revealed China’s stealth GJ-11 Sharp Sword drones at Malan Air Base, indicating their operational readiness. First shown in 2019, the GJ-11 features a flying wing design for enhanced stealth and can carry significant payloads with a combat radius of 1,200 miles, hinting at a new era in aerial warfare.On August 30, footage captured the CS-5000T drone flying over the desert, suggesting advanced capabilities with an operational ceiling of 18,000 meters and 20 hours of endurance, raising questions about its role in reconnaissance and electronic warfare amid rising tensions in the South China Sea.Additionally, on September 6, China’s Shenlong spaceplane completed a 268-day mission, setting endurance records and demonstrating flexibility with an altitude maneuver to 600 kilometers. Its success highlights China’s strides in reusable space technology and military advancements, closing the gap with Western powers.—