China has heavily invested in creating a drone fleet to dominate the skies over the Indo-Pacific region, preparing for possible conflicts, particularly concerning Taiwan, a self-governed island China claims as its own.

The Jiu Tian drone is particularly notable because it can release 100 smaller UAVs from its fuselage while in the air.

Chinese officials say it will soon make its first test flight.

In a computer-generated video shown as part of a broadcast by Chinese Central Television last Saturday, they were shown spilling out.

Their communications and mission can also be relayed by the drone carrier, enabling them to extend their flight range.

In addition to the drones, it can be armed with air-to-air, anti-ship and air-to-ground missiles, as well as 1000kg guided bombs.

Powered by a turbofan engine, the Jiu Tian has a range of 7000km and a maximum flying height of 15km.

But some observers point to the aircraft’s vast size as a vulnerability, making it an easy target for missile defences.

Its maximum ceiling height would also bring it within range of modern air defence systems, such as the US Patriot rockets.

US military aviation expert Tom Shugart, of Archer Strategic Consulting, says the drone carrier was an interesting concept but has drawbacks.

“I imagine in a high-end fight it could be subject to destruction by enemy aircraft or air defences before it got close enough to release those drones,” he said.

“Definitely worth keeping an eye on its development, though.”