China Reveals First Combat Drone and Other Developments
China has announced the deployment of its first combat drone, named the KVD002, described by China Daily as the nation’s inaugural reconnaissance combat aircraft in service with the Chinese army. The drone carries reconnaissance equipment along with two AR-1 air-to-surface missiles, marking a notable step in China’s unmanned warfare capabilities.
Meanwhile, in Russia a new folding-wing kamikaze drone identified as BAS-80 entered military operations in a designated special zone. Deliveries were confirmed by RIA Novosti, citing Evgeniy Dudorov, the general director of NPO Android Technology, the company responsible for the UAV’s development. The BAS-80 is described as a light, compact unit designed for rapid deployment in demanding environments.
According to Dudorov, the BAS-80 is crafted from composite materials, including carbon fiber or fiberglass, to minimize weight while preserving strength. The drone weighs about 1.7 kilograms, and its folding wing design lets it be tucked into a tube carried by the operator. This portability is intended to enable discreet and flexible use in field operations.
In related news, Russia reportedly advanced a new drone suppression system prior to these reports. The emergence of lightweight, easily transportable drones continues to influence modern battlefield tactics, prompting a focus on countermeasures and rapid-response defenses as military forces adapt to increasingly autonomous aerial assets. These developments highlight ongoing efforts to balance reconnaissance, strike capability, and portability in unmanned systems across major armed forces. The information reflects official briefings and industry disclosures from the respective organizations and media outlets cited below. [CITATION: China Daily on the KVD002; RIA Novosti and NPO Android Technology statements via Evgeniy Dudorov]