Report: China places massive order for kamikaze drones

A Chinese drone manufacturer has disclosed a massive government order for almost a million lightweight kamikaze drones, to be delivered by 2026.

The revelation, shared during a conversation with Defence Blog, highlights China’s rapidly expanding investment in unmanned aerial systems and their integration into modern warfare strategies.

According to the representative of Poly Technologies, this unprecedented contract has effectively monopolized their production capacity. “We already have an order for almost a million drones for our government, and we’re forced to turn down other clients to meet the demand,” the representative stated.

China’s focus on kamikaze drones, also known as loitering munitions, aligns with lessons drawn from recent global conflicts, particularly the extensive use of drones in Ukraine. The devastating effectiveness of Ukrainian military tactics employing light kamikaze and FPV drones has reportedly influenced Chinese military doctrine.

China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has already begun incorporating drone warfare into its training programs. Footage and reports suggest the use of FPV drones and kamikaze drones in simulated combat scenarios to enhance the readiness of PLA forces.

The scale of the order raises questions about its intended purpose. While Beijing has not provided explicit details, many defense analysts believe this could signal preparations for a potential conflict involving Taiwan.

The drone manufacturer’s remarks also shed light on broader industry dynamics. When asked about potential exports to Russia, the manufacturer indicated that meeting domestic demand is currently a top priority. This statement underscores the prioritization of China’s defense capabilities over international sales, despite increasing global interest in Chinese drone technology.

China’s military-industrial complex has been rapidly advancing in the realm of unmanned systems. The PLA has placed significant emphasis on drones as force multipliers, particularly in areas like reconnaissance, electronic warfare, and precision strikes. The integration of kamikaze drones provides a cost-effective and scalable solution for saturating enemy defenses, a tactic that has proven effective in various modern conflicts.

While it remains unclear whether other Chinese manufacturers have received similar orders, this development reflects a broader trend in China’s military build-up. Analysts note that such an extensive procurement aligns with the PLA’s objectives of modernizing and expanding its capabilities to prepare for potential large-scale engagements.