China will use the WZ-8 supersonic drone, which can reach speeds of 3,700km/h and destroy aircraft carriers, F-35 and F-22 fifth-generation fighters for espionage

The Chinese People's Liberation Army is preparing to use Wuzhen-8 (WZ-8) drones to spy on US ships and military bases. This is reported by The Washington Post, citing secret US intelligence documents that have been leaked to Discord.

Here's What We Know

The documents include satellite photos showing two WZ-8 drones 500km away from Shanghai. The images were taken on August 9 last year. It is believed that China will be able to use the drones to monitor US military installations and will be able to obtain information on missile launches.

The WZ-8 was unveiled in 2019. In early September 2022, the People's Liberation Army of China demonstrated the drone at an air show in Changchun city along with the YU-20 aerial refueller.

The WZ-8 can operate as a reconnaissance drone or a high-speed missile. The second mode of operation is designed to destroy US fifth-generation F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II fighters.

The WZ-8 has a top speed of 3,705 km/h (M=3). Another potential target for the drone is aircraft carriers. A H-6N strategic bomber could be used to launch the drone.

Source: The Washington Post