Is This China’s Truck-Mounted Electromagnetic Catapult?

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New imagery of Chinese language catapult-capable low-observable combat drones, or possibly mockups thereof, along with some uncommon vehicles, might level to plans to launch them from the bottom, as well as ships . A modular, truck-mounted electromagnetic catapult system would supply a priceless further strategy to launch bigger drones, particularly in areas with restricted entry to conventional runways. Normal Atomics in the US has proposed a roughly similar concept previously, leveraging know-how developed for the U.S. Navy’s Ford class aircraft carriers .

Photos of the drones sitting dockside at Hudong-Zhonghua shipyard in Shanghai first started circulating on-line late final week. The presence of the super-sized Type 076 amphibious assault ship Sichuan in drydock close by nonetheless raises the potential of plans for trials aboard that ship, which encompasses a single electromagnetic catapult, as was mentioned in TWZ ‘s preliminary reporting here . A medium-sized cargo ship loaded with containerized vertical launchers, in addition to sensors and close-in protection techniques, which emerged last week , has additionally been moored at this yard just lately.

<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" height="576" width="1024" src="https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockups-hudong-zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?strip=all&quality=85&w=1024" alt="" class="wp-image-6486581" srcset="https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockups-hudong-zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?w=50&h=28 50w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockups-hudong-zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?w=280&h=158 280w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockups-hudong-zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?w=289&h=163 289w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockups-hudong-zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?w=300&h=169 300w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockups-hudong-zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?w=308&h=173 308w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockups-hudong-zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?w=370&h=208 370w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockups-hudong-zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?w=384&h=216 384w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockups-hudong-zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?w=580&h=326 580w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockups-hudong-zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?w=660&h=371 660w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockups-hudong-zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?w=704&h=396 704w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockups-hudong-zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?w=711&h=400 711w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockups-hudong-zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?w=768&h=432 768w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockups-hudong-zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?w=1024&h=576 1024w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"/> Drones or drone mockups of catapult-capable low-observable fight drones, together with one loaded on the again of a truck, seen just lately at Hudong-Zhonghua shipyard in Shanghai. Chinese language Web

<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" height="768" width="1024" src="https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sichuan-dry-dock.jpg?strip=all&quality=85&w=1024" alt="" class="wp-image-6486595" srcset="https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sichuan-dry-dock.jpg?w=50&h=38 50w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sichuan-dry-dock.jpg?w=280&h=210 280w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sichuan-dry-dock.jpg?w=288&h=216 288w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sichuan-dry-dock.jpg?w=289&h=217 289w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sichuan-dry-dock.jpg?w=300&h=225 300w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sichuan-dry-dock.jpg?w=308&h=231 308w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sichuan-dry-dock.jpg?w=370&h=278 370w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sichuan-dry-dock.jpg?w=528&h=396 528w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sichuan-dry-dock.jpg?w=533&h=400 533w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sichuan-dry-dock.jpg?w=539&h=404 539w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sichuan-dry-dock.jpg?w=660&h=495 660w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sichuan-dry-dock.jpg?w=768&h=576 768w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sichuan-dry-dock.jpg?w=920&h=690 920w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sichuan-dry-dock.jpg?w=925&h=694 925w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sichuan-dry-dock.jpg?w=1003&h=752 1003w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/sichuan-dry-dock.jpg?w=1024&h=768 1024w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"/> An image additionally circulating on-line now of the Kind 076 amphibious assault ship Sichuan in drydock at Hudong-Zhonghua shipyard. The blast deflector behind the ship’s catapult is seen raised right here. Pylons that may very well be a part of a barrier system are additionally seen extending upward on reverse sides of the flight deck aft of the second island. Chinese language web

Although the drones are nonetheless below wraps within the new photos, we do now have a greater have a look at their total design. This consists of nostril touchdown gear with bars that clearly present the design is meant for catapult launch. There may be additionally a notable define of a fairing below the nostril, although no additional particulars about that characteristic may be discerned at current.

<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" height="576" width="1024" src="https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockup-close.jpg?strip=all&quality=85&w=1024" alt="" class="wp-image-6486584" srcset="https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockup-close.jpg?w=50&h=28 50w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockup-close.jpg?w=280&h=158 280w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockup-close.jpg?w=289&h=163 289w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockup-close.jpg?w=300&h=169 300w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockup-close.jpg?w=308&h=173 308w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockup-close.jpg?w=370&h=208 370w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockup-close.jpg?w=384&h=216 384w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockup-close.jpg?w=580&h=326 580w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockup-close.jpg?w=660&h=371 660w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockup-close.jpg?w=704&h=396 704w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockup-close.jpg?w=711&h=400 711w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockup-close.jpg?w=768&h=432 768w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockup-close.jpg?w=1024&h=576 1024w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"/> A detailed-up have a look at one of many drone mockups at Hudong-Zhonghua shipyard. The catapult bar on the nostril touchdown gear and the define of the fairing below the nostril are seen right here. Chinese language Web

It's fascinating to notice {that a} mockup of a drone called the FH-97 , proven at China’s Zhuhai Airshow in 2021, was depicted with an electro-optical sensor in a stealthy gold-plated windowed enclosure put in below its nostril. The general design of the FH-97, which is no less than closely impressed by the XQ-58A Valkyrie from U.S. drone maker Kratos, is comparable in lots of different respects, no less than in broad strokes, to what has now been seen on the Hudong-Zhonghua shipyard. The XQ-58 and FH-97 are each notably smaller designs. There are additionally similarities to 2 Chinese language ‘loyal wingman’ kind drone designs, generally referred to presently because the Kind C and Kind E, which emerged round an enormous army parade in Beijing back in September .

<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" height="576" width="1024" src="https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/fh-97-display.jpg?strip=all&quality=85&w=1024" alt="" class="wp-image-6462581" srcset="https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/fh-97-display.jpg?w=50&h=28 50w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/fh-97-display.jpg?w=280&h=158 280w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/fh-97-display.jpg?w=289&h=163 289w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/fh-97-display.jpg?w=300&h=169 300w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/fh-97-display.jpg?w=308&h=173 308w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/fh-97-display.jpg?w=370&h=208 370w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/fh-97-display.jpg?w=384&h=216 384w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/fh-97-display.jpg?w=580&h=326 580w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/fh-97-display.jpg?w=660&h=371 660w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/fh-97-display.jpg?w=704&h=396 704w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/fh-97-display.jpg?w=711&h=400 711w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/fh-97-display.jpg?w=768&h=432 768w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/fh-97-display.jpg?w=1024&h=576 1024w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"/> The FH-97 mockup displayed at that the 2021 Zhuhai Airshow. Chinese language Web

Properly, again from work and again to this unusual image: 🤔 I begin with my layman's try to type them a bit + including the names in response to Huitong's CMA-Weblog.

1. pic.twitter.com/GPXjD2q1r3

— @Rupprecht_A (@RupprechtDeino) September 10, 2025

Extra apparently, the brand new photos from Hudong-Zhonghua shipyard present no less than three eight-wheeled vehicles that look designed to lock collectively seamlessly in a sequence. Doing so additionally seems to type a steady flat floor throughout the highest. One of many drones is seen loaded on the rear of one of many vehicles with its nostril gear bar locked into what appears to be like to be a catapult shuttle.

<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" height="567" width="1024" src="https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockups-trucks-full-view.jpg?strip=all&quality=85&w=1024" alt="" class="wp-image-6486594" srcset="https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockups-trucks-full-view.jpg?w=50&h=28 50w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockups-trucks-full-view.jpg?w=280&h=155 280w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockups-trucks-full-view.jpg?w=289&h=160 289w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockups-trucks-full-view.jpg?w=300&h=166 300w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockups-trucks-full-view.jpg?w=308&h=171 308w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockups-trucks-full-view.jpg?w=370&h=205 370w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockups-trucks-full-view.jpg?w=390&h=216 390w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockups-trucks-full-view.jpg?w=580&h=321 580w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockups-trucks-full-view.jpg?w=660&h=366 660w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockups-trucks-full-view.jpg?w=704&h=390 704w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockups-trucks-full-view.jpg?w=722&h=400 722w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockups-trucks-full-view.jpg?w=768&h=425 768w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockups-trucks-full-view.jpg?w=1024&h=567 1024w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"/> A broad view of the drone or drone mockups, in addition to vehicles, on the pier at Hudong-Zhonghua shipyard. Chinese language web

<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" height="714" width="1024" src="https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockup-catapult-bar-shuttle.jpg?strip=all&quality=85&w=1024" alt="" class="wp-image-6486593" srcset="https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockup-catapult-bar-shuttle.jpg?w=50&h=35 50w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockup-catapult-bar-shuttle.jpg?w=280&h=195 280w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockup-catapult-bar-shuttle.jpg?w=289&h=202 289w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockup-catapult-bar-shuttle.jpg?w=300&h=209 300w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockup-catapult-bar-shuttle.jpg?w=308&h=215 308w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockup-catapult-bar-shuttle.jpg?w=310&h=216 310w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockup-catapult-bar-shuttle.jpg?w=370&h=258 370w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockup-catapult-bar-shuttle.jpg?w=568&h=396 568w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockup-catapult-bar-shuttle.jpg?w=573&h=400 573w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockup-catapult-bar-shuttle.jpg?w=580&h=404 580w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockup-catapult-bar-shuttle.jpg?w=660&h=460 660w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockup-catapult-bar-shuttle.jpg?w=768&h=536 768w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockup-catapult-bar-shuttle.jpg?w=989&h=690 989w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockup-catapult-bar-shuttle.jpg?w=995&h=694 995w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/drone-mockup-catapult-bar-shuttle.jpg?w=1024&h=714 1024w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"/> A detailed-up have a look at the drone, or mockup thereof, on the truck, with its catapult bar seeking to be locked right into a shuttle-like fixture. Chinese language web

Apart from the cabs in entrance, the edges of the vehicles are largely open, displaying elaborate electrical techniques and huge quantities of heavy uncovered wiring. There's a cylindrical drum above every wheel, which may very well be a part of an impartial articulating suspension system able to self-leveling. They may additionally serve one other goal, which we'll come again to afterward.

<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" height="671" width="1024" src="https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/truck-front-close-up.jpg?strip=all&quality=85&w=1024" alt="" class="wp-image-6486592" srcset="https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/truck-front-close-up.jpg?w=50&h=33 50w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/truck-front-close-up.jpg?w=280&h=183 280w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/truck-front-close-up.jpg?w=289&h=189 289w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/truck-front-close-up.jpg?w=300&h=197 300w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/truck-front-close-up.jpg?w=308&h=202 308w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/truck-front-close-up.jpg?w=330&h=216 330w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/truck-front-close-up.jpg?w=370&h=242 370w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/truck-front-close-up.jpg?w=580&h=380 580w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/truck-front-close-up.jpg?w=605&h=396 605w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/truck-front-close-up.jpg?w=611&h=400 611w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/truck-front-close-up.jpg?w=660&h=432 660w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/truck-front-close-up.jpg?w=768&h=503 768w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/truck-front-close-up.jpg?w=1024&h=671 1024w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"/> One other close-up view, this time of the truck on the entrance of the chain displaying the assorted parts that may be seen from the facet. Chinese language web

A satellite tv for pc picture taken yesterday, which TWZ obtained from Planet Labs, exhibits what appears to be like to be no less than 4 of the vehicles parked shut collectively in a line alongside one of many piers at Hudong-Zhonghua shipyard. Regardless of the low decision, a drone is plainly seen loaded on one of many vehicles. One other one of many ‘loyal wingman’ drones is seen instantly behind the row of vehicles, consistent with what's seen within the photos taken at floor stage. 4 extra of the swept-wing drones are additionally seen additional down the pier. A Wing Loong-type drone , just like the Q-1/Q-9 Predator/Reaper collection, can be current.

<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" height="1015" width="1024" src="https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/251228-Hudong-Zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?strip=all&quality=85&w=1024" alt="" class="wp-image-6486599" srcset="https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/251228-Hudong-Zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?w=50&h=50 50w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/251228-Hudong-Zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?w=102&h=102 102w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/251228-Hudong-Zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?w=150&h=150 150w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/251228-Hudong-Zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?w=218&h=216 218w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/251228-Hudong-Zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?w=280&h=277 280w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/251228-Hudong-Zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?w=289&h=286 289w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/251228-Hudong-Zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?w=300&h=297 300w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/251228-Hudong-Zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?w=308&h=305 308w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/251228-Hudong-Zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?w=370&h=367 370w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/251228-Hudong-Zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?w=400&h=396 400w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/251228-Hudong-Zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?w=404&h=400 404w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/251228-Hudong-Zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?w=408&h=404 408w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/251228-Hudong-Zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?w=660&h=654 660w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/251228-Hudong-Zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?w=696&h=690 696w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/251228-Hudong-Zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?w=700&h=694 700w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/251228-Hudong-Zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?w=759&h=752 759w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/251228-Hudong-Zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?w=768&h=761 768w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/251228-Hudong-Zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?w=844&h=836 844w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/251228-Hudong-Zhonghua-shipyard.jpg?w=1024&h=1015 1024w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"/> A satellite tv for pc picture of Hudong-Zhonghua shipyard taken on December 28. Regardless of its low decision, the drone mockups, in addition to the vehicles alongside pier, are clearly seen. PHOTO © 2025 PLANET LABS INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. REPRINTED BY PERMISSION

Altogether, there's the potential that these vehicles may very well be a part of a cell ground-based electromagnetic catapult system. The cylinders and wiring seen on the vehicles is perhaps electromagnets and/or different supporting parts. Any such system would additionally have to be self-leveling to assist guarantee a clear launch.

On the identical time, they might nonetheless simply be transporters, although the design appears to be like way more elaborate than could be required for that goal alone. The vehicles might probably be designed to serve each features.

There may be the extra query of why, if that is certainly a ground-based electromagnetic catapult system, it has been introduced all the way down to Hudong-Zhonghua shipyard in any respect. This isn't the setting through which one would anticipate such a system to be employed, and there aren't any clear indicators as of but that it's there as half of a bigger show.

Regardless, the fundamental concept of using an plane carrier-type catapult launch system on land just isn't new. China itself, in addition to the US, has constructed steam and electromagnetic-powered catapults at land-based take a look at websites for take a look at, analysis, and coaching functions. The U.S. Marine Corps really employed an ‘plane provider on land’ with catapults and arresting gear, known as the Short Airfield for Tactical Support (SATS) system, operationally throughout the Vietnam Struggle, which you'll be able to learn extra about here .

CE-2 TRACKLESS AIRCRAFT LAUNCHER 1966 MARINE CORPS SHORT AIRFIELD FOR TACTICAL SUPPORT FILM 81190

[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eXlIm1LRs5s[/embed]

A minimum of one firm in China, Tiantao Know-how, has been overtly speaking about plans for a ground-based electromagnetic catapult system made up of modular wheeled segments since no less than August of this yr. Renderings have proven 10-wheeled sections that do have some broad similarities to, however that are also distinctly completely different from the eight-wheeled vehicles seen at Hudong-Zhonghua shipyard. The eight-wheeled vehicles, if they're a part of a cell electromagnetic catapult system, might additionally mirror an early developmental iteration.

<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" height="683" width="1024" src="https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-mobile-emals-rendering.jpg?strip=all&quality=85&w=1024" alt="" class="wp-image-6486603" srcset="https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-mobile-emals-rendering.jpg?w=50&h=33 50w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-mobile-emals-rendering.jpg?w=280&h=187 280w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-mobile-emals-rendering.jpg?w=289&h=193 289w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-mobile-emals-rendering.jpg?w=300&h=200 300w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-mobile-emals-rendering.jpg?w=308&h=205 308w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-mobile-emals-rendering.jpg?w=324&h=216 324w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-mobile-emals-rendering.jpg?w=370&h=247 370w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-mobile-emals-rendering.jpg?w=580&h=387 580w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-mobile-emals-rendering.jpg?w=594&h=396 594w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-mobile-emals-rendering.jpg?w=600&h=400 600w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-mobile-emals-rendering.jpg?w=660&h=440 660w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-mobile-emals-rendering.jpg?w=768&h=512 768w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-mobile-emals-rendering.jpg?w=1024&h=683 1024w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"/> A rendering of Tiantao-Know-how’s modular cell electromagnetic catapult system. Tiantao Know-how

<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" height="707" width="1024" src="https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-mobile-emals-sgement-rendering.jpg?strip=all&quality=85&w=1024" alt="" class="wp-image-6486604" srcset="https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-mobile-emals-sgement-rendering.jpg?w=50&h=35 50w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-mobile-emals-sgement-rendering.jpg?w=280&h=193 280w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-mobile-emals-sgement-rendering.jpg?w=289&h=200 289w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-mobile-emals-sgement-rendering.jpg?w=300&h=207 300w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-mobile-emals-sgement-rendering.jpg?w=308&h=213 308w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-mobile-emals-sgement-rendering.jpg?w=313&h=216 313w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-mobile-emals-sgement-rendering.jpg?w=370&h=256 370w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-mobile-emals-sgement-rendering.jpg?w=573&h=396 573w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-mobile-emals-sgement-rendering.jpg?w=579&h=400 579w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-mobile-emals-sgement-rendering.jpg?w=580&h=401 580w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-mobile-emals-sgement-rendering.jpg?w=660&h=456 660w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-mobile-emals-sgement-rendering.jpg?w=768&h=530 768w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-mobile-emals-sgement-rendering.jpg?w=999&h=690 999w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-mobile-emals-sgement-rendering.jpg?w=1005&h=694 1005w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-mobile-emals-sgement-rendering.jpg?w=1024&h=707 1024w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"/> One other rendering displaying one section of Tiantao-Know-how’s modular cell electromagnetic catapult system. The plane depicted right here is vaguely paying homage to the Chinese language J-36 heavy crewed tactical jet, which is exponentially bigger than what the corporate has stated it expects to be launchable from this technique. Tiantao Know-how

Tiantao Know-how has additionally reportedly stated the system can be able to launching uncrewed plane weighing as much as round 2.2 tons (two metric tons). That is lighter than the anticipated takeoff weights of ‘loyal wingman’ kind drones China has proven up to now, primarily based on the recognized specs of comparably-sized Western designs. For instance, the acknowledged most launch weight of the XQ-58 is three tons, in response to Kratos. As one other level of comparability, the Chinese GJ-11 , a bigger flying-wing uncrewed fight air automobile (UCAV), a catapult-capable model of which is now in growth, reportedly has a payload capability of round two tons. China’s J-15 family of crewed carrier-based fighters , derived from the Su-33 Flanker, every weighs round 19 tons (17.5 metric tons) empty with none gasoline or ordnance, as properly.

It's doable that the modular design of Tiantao Know-how’s ground-based catapult system might permit for configurations able to launching heavier designs. A core advantage of electromagnetic catapults over steam-powered ones, on the whole, is their skill to be extra fine-tuned by way of the forces they exert on any plane throughout launch. The capabilities of a modular system would even be depending on its actual configuration, together with how lengthy the catapult monitor is total. Tiantao Know-how has stated the overall size of its system may very well be scaled between roughly 65 and 196 toes (20 and 60 meters). What limitations there is perhaps on merely including extra segments to extend launch capability are unknown.

China’s plane provider electromagnetic catapult is extremely cool — the second the catapult involves an immediate cease appears to be like like an area leap straight out of a sci-fi film. pic.twitter.com/VWdLOEzgzS

— JacksonS (@shrmodelx) December 25, 2025

Tiantao Know-how has additionally proven fashions and renderings of truck and trailer-mounted electromagnetic catapults for launching even smaller drones. How a lot progress it has made within the precise growth of any of the techniques up to now is unclear. Different corporations in China might very properly be working alongside comparable traces, too.

<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" height="576" width="1024" src="https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-truck-emals-rendering.jpg?strip=all&quality=85&w=1024" alt="" class="wp-image-6486606" srcset="https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-truck-emals-rendering.jpg?w=50&h=28 50w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-truck-emals-rendering.jpg?w=280&h=158 280w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-truck-emals-rendering.jpg?w=289&h=163 289w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-truck-emals-rendering.jpg?w=300&h=169 300w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-truck-emals-rendering.jpg?w=308&h=173 308w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-truck-emals-rendering.jpg?w=370&h=208 370w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-truck-emals-rendering.jpg?w=384&h=216 384w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-truck-emals-rendering.jpg?w=580&h=327 580w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-truck-emals-rendering.jpg?w=660&h=372 660w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-truck-emals-rendering.jpg?w=704&h=396 704w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-truck-emals-rendering.jpg?w=711&h=400 711w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-truck-emals-rendering.jpg?w=768&h=432 768w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-truck-emals-rendering.jpg?w=1024&h=576 1024w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"/> A rendering of one other cell electromagnetic catapult design idea from Tiantao-Know-how, this one being a self-contained kind on a 10-wheeled tactical truck. Tiantao Know-how

<img decoding="async" width="800" height="584" loading="lazy" src="https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-trailer-emals-rendering.jpg?strip=all&quality=85&w=800" alt="" class="wp-image-6486607" style="width:1024px;height:auto" srcset="https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-trailer-emals-rendering.jpg?w=50&h=37 50w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-trailer-emals-rendering.jpg?w=280&h=204 280w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-trailer-emals-rendering.jpg?w=289&h=211 289w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-trailer-emals-rendering.jpg?w=296&h=216 296w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-trailer-emals-rendering.jpg?w=300&h=219 300w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-trailer-emals-rendering.jpg?w=308&h=225 308w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-trailer-emals-rendering.jpg?w=370&h=270 370w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-trailer-emals-rendering.jpg?w=542&h=396 542w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-trailer-emals-rendering.jpg?w=548&h=400 548w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-trailer-emals-rendering.jpg?w=553&h=404 553w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-trailer-emals-rendering.jpg?w=660&h=482 660w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-trailer-emals-rendering.jpg?w=768&h=561 768w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Tiantao-Technology-trailer-emals-rendering.jpg 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"/> Tiantao-Know-how has additionally proven this trailer-based electromagnetic catapult idea. Tiantao Know-how

All this being stated, a ground-based electromagnetic catapult system able to launching even two-ton drones nonetheless opens doorways to new operational prospects. It is a functionality that may very well be particularly priceless in expeditionary situations or different contexts through which entry to conventional runways is proscribed. A cell system would additionally supply a brand new strategy to push no less than a sure tier of airpower nearer to the entrance traces, and assist maintain it in shut proximity the place it may very well be extra responsive, whilst the size of the battlefield evolve. Much less transit time would translate to extra on-station endurance even for smaller, shorter-range drones.

One other common advantage of electromagnetic catapults over steam-powered varieties is the shorter reset time, which, by extension, will increase sortie era charges. How Tiantao Know-how envisions drones being loaded on its ground-based system is unclear. It's doable {that a} truck preloaded with a drone might drive up, lock into the rear of the monitor, launch, after which detach to make means for the following one, providing further advantages on the subject of operational tempo. Having the ability to break the launch system into a number of components and disperse it when not in use would create concentrating on challenges for enemies and assist improve survivability, as properly.

As TWZ regularly notes , China’s Folks’s Liberation Military (PLA) has main standing necessities to have the opportunity to conduct island-hopping campaigns towards various potential opponents in the Pacific , the place a shore-based electromagnetic catapult system may very well be notably related. The PLA can be postured to combat in extremely distant and high-altitude areas along its disputed western border with India , the place entry to established runways can be typically restricted.

These sorts of operational situations are driving the pursuit of plane, particularly uncrewed varieties, with reduced runway requirements or entirely runway-independent designs by many armed forces globally. This consists of the U.S. army. A ground-based electromagnetic catapult is only one means of approaching this operational need . There are runway-independent drones already available on the market at the moment which might be launched with the assistance of expendable rocket motors or pneumatic catapults . Nevertheless, these strategies impose their very own limitations, particularly on the subject of launch weight and payload capability. Rocket-assisted takeoffs come together with the extra dangers related to utilizing that sort of propellant, in addition to the stresses which might be imparted on the plane being launched. The rockets are additionally consumed on launch, requiring a gentle provide of them at any working location. Kratos has notably demonstrated a special launch trolley for its primarily rocket-launched XQ-58 that permits for conventional runway takeoffs. The corporate can be creating a model of that design with built-in landing gear , to supply elevated flexibility.

<img decoding="async" loading="lazy" height="576" width="1024" src="https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/xq-58-rato-launch.jpg?strip=all&quality=85&w=1024" alt="" class="wp-image-6486660" srcset="https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/xq-58-rato-launch.jpg?w=50&h=28 50w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/xq-58-rato-launch.jpg?w=280&h=157 280w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/xq-58-rato-launch.jpg?w=289&h=163 289w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/xq-58-rato-launch.jpg?w=300&h=169 300w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/xq-58-rato-launch.jpg?w=308&h=173 308w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/xq-58-rato-launch.jpg?w=370&h=208 370w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/xq-58-rato-launch.jpg?w=384&h=216 384w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/xq-58-rato-launch.jpg?w=580&h=326 580w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/xq-58-rato-launch.jpg?w=660&h=371 660w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/xq-58-rato-launch.jpg?w=704&h=396 704w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/xq-58-rato-launch.jpg?w=711&h=400 711w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/xq-58-rato-launch.jpg?w=768&h=432 768w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/xq-58-rato-launch.jpg?w=1024&h=576 1024w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"/> An XQ-58 seen being launched by way of a rocket-assisted technique. USAF

Within the context of what might now be in growth in China, there's the extra query about how drones is perhaps recovered after launch from a ground-based electromagnetic catapult. Tiantao Know-how doesn't seem to have elaborated but on this a part of the anticipated idea of operations for its system. The aforementioned idea that Normal Atomics put ahead paired an electromagnetic catapult with a separate arrested landing system , additionally primarily based on know-how developed for the U.S. Navy’s Ford class plane carriers. As famous, the Vietnam Struggle-era SATS system additionally included arresting gear. The U.S. military and other armed forces globally already make use of deployable arresting gear, particularly to allow crewed tactical jet operations from far-flung locations with shorter runways. Drones might recuperate at tertiary bases, or be designed to land via parachute or another runway-independent technique, as properly. The system may be used to launch long-range one-way assault drones that might not be designed for restoration in any respect.

<img decoding="async" width="1024" height="682" loading="lazy" src="https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/hornet-deployable-arresting-gear.jpg?strip=all&quality=85&w=1024" alt="" class="wp-image-6486609" srcset="https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/hornet-deployable-arresting-gear.jpg?w=50&h=33 50w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/hornet-deployable-arresting-gear.jpg?w=280&h=186 280w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/hornet-deployable-arresting-gear.jpg?w=289&h=192 289w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/hornet-deployable-arresting-gear.jpg?w=300&h=200 300w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/hornet-deployable-arresting-gear.jpg?w=308&h=205 308w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/hornet-deployable-arresting-gear.jpg?w=324&h=216 324w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/hornet-deployable-arresting-gear.jpg?w=370&h=246 370w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/hornet-deployable-arresting-gear.jpg?w=580&h=386 580w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/hornet-deployable-arresting-gear.jpg?w=595&h=396 595w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/hornet-deployable-arresting-gear.jpg?w=601&h=400 601w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/hornet-deployable-arresting-gear.jpg?w=660&h=440 660w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/hornet-deployable-arresting-gear.jpg?w=768&h=512 768w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/hornet-deployable-arresting-gear.jpg 1024w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"/> A US Marine Corps F/A-18 Hornet lands at West Subject on the island of Tianian with the assistance of an M-31 expeditionary arresting gear system throughout an train. USMC

There may be additionally a query of energy and different logistical necessities. Nevertheless, a ground-based electromagnetic catapult system that's not required to help all the differing types in a full provider air wing, particularly bigger crewed plane, would inherently require far much less functionality.

It's also price noting {that a} modular electromagnetic catapult system is perhaps usable on ships that wouldn't have this functionality constructed into their design. As talked about, the drones and vehicles seen at Hudong-Zhonghua shipyard had been noticed close to a cargo ship loaded with varied containerized weapons and different techniques. A drone launch functionality of some type could be a logical addition to a vessel with that configuration. On the identical time, whether or not or not any catapult system made up of a number of segmented parts could be steady sufficient to be used on a ship rocking forwards and backwards at sea is unclear.

<img decoding="async" width="1024" height="619" loading="lazy" src="https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/chinese-cargo-ship-container-systems.jpg?strip=all&quality=85&w=1024" alt="" class="wp-image-6486611" srcset="https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/chinese-cargo-ship-container-systems.jpg?w=50&h=30 50w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/chinese-cargo-ship-container-systems.jpg?w=280&h=169 280w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/chinese-cargo-ship-container-systems.jpg?w=289&h=175 289w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/chinese-cargo-ship-container-systems.jpg?w=300&h=181 300w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/chinese-cargo-ship-container-systems.jpg?w=308&h=186 308w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/chinese-cargo-ship-container-systems.jpg?w=357&h=216 357w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/chinese-cargo-ship-container-systems.jpg?w=370&h=224 370w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/chinese-cargo-ship-container-systems.jpg?w=580&h=351 580w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/chinese-cargo-ship-container-systems.jpg?w=655&h=396 655w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/chinese-cargo-ship-container-systems.jpg?w=660&h=399 660w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/chinese-cargo-ship-container-systems.jpg?w=662&h=400 662w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/chinese-cargo-ship-container-systems.jpg?w=768&h=464 768w, https://www.twz.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/chinese-cargo-ship-container-systems.jpg 1024w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"/> A have a look at the cargo ship that just lately emerged in China loaded with containerized weapons and different techniques. Chinese language web

As a common observe, major new military capabilities typically emerge in China during the time between Christmas and New Yr’s. That is additionally one thing that occurs with the clear acquiescence of authorities in Beijing if they aren't outright introduced by official channels. Hudong-Zhonghua shipyard is an apparent space of curiosity for observers, and Chinese language authorities don't seem to have taken any particular steps to hide the latest look of the drone mockups or the vehicles.

Extra particulars in regards to the vehicles, and their actual perform, in addition to the drones, might now start to emerge.

Contact the creator: joe@twz.com

Joseph has been a member of The Struggle Zone group since early 2017. Previous to that, he was an Affiliate Editor at Struggle Is Boring, and his byline has appeared in different publications, together with Small Arms Assessment , Small Arms Protection Journal , Reuters , We Are the Mighty , and Activity & Objective .