Hongdu GJ-11
| Industry | Aerospace, Defense |
|---|---|
| Headquarters | Nanchang , China |
| Products | Hongdu GJ-11 Sharp Sword UCAV |
| Owner | Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) |
| Parent | Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) |
The Hongdu GJ-11 Sharp Sword () represents an unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) engineered in the People's Republic of China to serve the People's Liberation Army. Developed collaboratively by the Shenyang Aircraft Design Institute (SYADI) and Hongdu Aviation Industry Group (HAIG), it is among seven proposed designs under the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) "AVIC 601-S" initiative. The GJ-11 is designed to execute precision strike operations as well as conduct aerial reconnaissance missions.
Development
Initial prototypes exhibited a less stealth-optimized appearance, notably with an exposed engine exhaust.
The platform completed its inaugural flight, lasting approximately 20 minutes, on November 21, 2013, departing from HAIG’s airfield.
During Airshow China in October 2021, AVIC presented the GJ-11 publicly. Reports indicate the drone can autonomously launch from Type 076 amphibious assault vessels and is capable of deploying swarming airborne decoys or electronic warfare payloads in addition to precision-guided weapons.
By October 2022, Chinese media disclosed computer-generated imagery depicting a formation of three GJ-11 drones operating under the control of a two-seat Chengdu J-20 fighter jet, paralleling concepts similar to the U.S. Loyal Wingman program.
As of 2021, evaluation and trials were underway, with plans to initiate serial production during 2022.
In 2024, multiple GJ-11 units were observed at PLAAF Malan Air Base, recognized as a central testing site for unmanned platforms. The PLA examined manned-unmanned teaming tactics involving the GJ-11 and advanced a naval variant tailored for deployment aboard Type 076 large-deck amphibious assault ships.
Operational assessments extended into late 2025 at Shigatse Peace Airport, and a full-scale mockup was displayed during the 2025 China Victory Day Parade.
Design
The GJ-11 features a tailless flying wing configuration incorporating two internal weapon bays. Stealth capabilities are enhanced through shaping the aft fuselage around the engine exhaust and utilizing serrated doors for the weapon compartments. It is powered by a single turbofan engine of undisclosed model, with an overall wingspan measuring 14 meters.
Referred to by Chinese forces as a "loyal wingman," this UCAV is intended to operate in tandem with manned aircraft during combat missions.
Variants
- GJ-11
- The baseline model
- GJ-11J
- Also known as GJ-21, this is a navalized carrier-capable variant.