Chinese state media has released a conceptual video showcasing the Luanniao, an ambitious space aircraft carrier project that, according to Beijing, could in the future launch unmanned fighter aircraft and fire hypersonic missiles from the edge of the atmosphere.
The aircraft’s triangular design, compared to ships from the Star Wars franchise, is part of the NanTianMen (Heavenly Gate) aerospace program, launched in 2017 with the goal of expanding China’s military capabilities in the air and in space.
According to the information released, the Luanniao would be about 240 meters long, more than 600 meters wide, and would weigh approximately 120,000 tons, surpassing any existing aircraft carrier in size. The project envisions the vessel carrying up to 88 unmanned Xuan Nu fighters, capable of conducting hypersonic missile strikes. Chinese media suggest the platform could become operational within a 20- to 30-year timeframe.
Experts consulted by the international press, however, view the plan with skepticism. Researcher Peter Layton of the Griffith Asia Institute told The Telegraph that the technology required to make such an aircraft viable does not yet exist. According to him, the project would require extremely large volumes of fuel and a propulsion system that is not even under development at present.
Analysts also assess that the disclosure of the concept may have a strategic and symbolic purpose, serving as a propaganda tool to reinforce the Chinese government’s image of technological innovation and military power. The Luanniao would be part of a broader set of initiatives by the Aviation Industry Corporation of China to expand the country’s aerospace reach, amid growing demonstrations of force in the region and tensions involving Taiwan and the United States.
@saibadetudonews Chinese space aircraft carrier project envisions 88 drones and hypersonic strike Images: X @Shanna__Bylka
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Source: Extra / New York Post | Photo: X @Shanna__Bylka | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
