Satellite images confirm the deployment of China's most advanced stealth drone, the GJ-11 'Sharp Sword', at Tibet's Shigatse Air Base, directly adjacent to India's border. They were stationed there for testing from August to September 2025, marking their first operational use.
According to
, these drones are capable of carrying out stealth attacks, surveillance, and electronic warfare, suggesting they are nearly combat-ready. This highlights China’s efforts to enhance its aerial capabilities in the Himalayan region, where J-20 fighter jets and WZ-7 drones are also active.
GJ-11 is an unmanned aerial vehicle with a 'flying wing' design, characterized by its bat-like, flat appearance, enabling radar evasion, or stealth. First showcased in 2013, it now appears poised for active duty.
Stealth Strikes: Capable of bombing enemy positions covertly.
Reconnaissance: Conducts surveillance and captures images over distances.
Electronic Warfare: Can jam enemy radar or communication systems.
This drone excels in long-distance flights and high-altitude performance, crafted by China's AVIC.
The Shigatse Air Base in Tibet, located near the Himalayas, is merely 200-300 km from India’s Sikkim border. Satellite photos (by Planet Labs) indicate three GJ-11 drones arrived there in August 2025, remaining at the runway until September.
This marks their first sighting at an operational airbase, having been previously confined to factories or testing sites. Despite Tibet's challenging altitude exceeding 4,000 meters, successful drone testing has been executed by China.
Source: aajtak
July 2025: Satellite data hinted at drones heading to Shigatse.
August 2025: Trio of drones arrived; testing commenced.
September 2025: Drones remained but were eventually withdrawn.
October 2025: Satellite images released publicly, news spread.
While this was a testing phase, it affirms the drones are almost combat-ready.
There is tension between India and China in the Himalayan zone. Since the 2020 Galwan clash, both nations have been boosting their military might. China is focusing on strengthening its high-altitude aerial dominance...
J-20 Fighter Jet: Stealth aircraft known for swift flight.
WZ-7 Drone: Specialized for long-range reconnaissance, dubbed Soaring Dragon.
GJ-11: Adding stealth strike capabilities to the mix.
Together, these enhance China's air superiority in the Himalayas, overcoming altitude-related engine performance issues tailored for these drones.
For India, this poses a strategic concern as Shigatse is proximate to Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. Should these drones engage in surveillance or strike missions, the Indian military could face hurdles. India possesses drones like 'Rustom' and 'Tapas', yet lacks in stealth variety. Experts interpret this as China signaling readiness. Currently, no confrontations have arisen. Both countries are seeking diplomatic resolutions to ease tensions.
