China has positioned more than 200 old fighter jets converted into attack drones at air bases near the Taiwan Strait, according to a new defence report. The move is being seen as a potential strategy to boost its military readiness in case of a conflict with Taiwan.
The report by the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies states that these modified aircraft are former J-6 fighter jets, models originally used by the Chinese air force in the 1960s. Satellite images show rows of these jets at six air bases, including five in Fujian province and one in Guangdong.
Experts say these converted drones are likely to be used in large numbers during the early stages of a conflict. Instead of operating like traditional unmanned aerial vehicles, they would function more like cruise missiles, flying directly into targets to cause damage.
According to analyst J. Michael Dahm, the People’s Liberation Army could use these drones to overwhelm air defence systems. Launching a large number of low-cost drones at once could make it difficult for Taiwan and its allies to respond effectively.
Taiwan has raised concerns over this tactic, warning that it may be forced to use expensive interceptor missiles to shoot down relatively cheap drones. In response, it is now working on strengthening its counter-drone systems to handle such threats.
The development adds to rising tensions in the region, with growing focus on China’s military build-up and preparedness around the Taiwan Strait.