Chinese UAVs fly near Japan as new models abound
A rear view of the TB001 UAV from Tengden, of the type spotted by the Japanese military over the East China Sea. (Gordon Arthur)
New and innovative UAV designs continue to flood out of Chinese companies and institutes, while the PLA is getting bolder about flying them farther afield too.
The Joint Staff Office of the Japanese MoD has publicised the fact that a Chinese TB001 MALE UAV flew near Japanese territory on 24 August, prompting Japanese fighters to scramble.
This twin-tailed Scorpion UAV, as it is sometimes known, is not believed to be in the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) service yet, so its presence over the East China Sea far from the Chinese coast was intriguing. It flew towards Okinawa and Miyako Island in the Ryuku Islands chain, before turning for home.
Whether the TW328/TB001 was undergoing evaluations — by its manufacturer Tengden Technology Company, by the PLA Air
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![L3Harris begins work on South Korean AEW&C aircraft, eyes further international opportunities]()
L3Harris begins work on South Korean AEW&C aircraft, eyes further international opportunities
The company remains upbeat about its Indo-Pacific and European prospects, with its AERIS X system onboard a Bombardier 6500 proving an attractive option for air forces’ growing AEW&C needs.
-
![Airbus Helicopters is deepening its European reach as NATO orders climb]()
Airbus Helicopters is deepening its European reach as NATO orders climb
Airbus has delivered more than 2,000 helicopters to nations across Europe, and continues to solidify its position at the heart of the region’s defence industrial base.
-
![World Defense Show 2026: Airbus details A400M upgrade as second Indonesia aircraft delivery looms]()
World Defense Show 2026: Airbus details A400M upgrade as second Indonesia aircraft delivery looms
With the A400M set for a capability upgrade, Airbus officials are bullish about the aircraft and its market potential for both new and existing customers with the improvements geared towards meeting future requirements.
-
![Singapore Airshow 2026: Rafael highlights tailored effector solutions for different operational needs]()
Singapore Airshow 2026: Rafael highlights tailored effector solutions for different operational needs
Shephard spoke with Rafael’s CEO about the company’s effector offerings as well as his perspective on one-way attack drones.
