China has unveiled a major leap in AI-powered military drone technology, demonstrating a 200-strong autonomous drone swarm that can be controlled by just one soldier, according to state broadcaster CCTV. The system, recently showcased by the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), highlights China’s growing focus on swarm warfare and artificial intelligence.
The drones are launched from the Swarm I High Mobility Swarm Weapon System, a land vehicle capable of deploying up to 48 fixed-wing drones simultaneously. Once airborne, each drone uses an intelligent algorithm to communicate with other units, allowing the swarm to fly in coordinated formations and divide tasks such as reconnaissance, surveillance, and strike missions.
Researchers from China’s National University of Defence Technology say the swarm can continue operating even if communication with the human operator is lost. Built-in anti-jamming and autonomous decision-making algorithms enable the drones to resist electromagnetic interference and adapt in real time.
China first revealed its swarm technology at the 2021 Zhuhai Air Show, with an upgraded Swarm II version introduced in 2024, offering higher speed, longer endurance, and multi-payload capabilities. Combined with China’s new drone-launching amphibious assault ship, the technology significantly enhances the PLA’s long-range operational reach.
As global militaries race to develop AI drone swarms, China’s latest demonstration signals an intensifying future of autonomous warfare.