X5 Attack Drone

China Unmanned Aerial System

30-03-2025

The X5 Attack Drone was showcased at the Zhuhai Airshow in China at the end of 2024. Limited information is available about the drone, though reports indicate that it is capable of autonomously tracking, recognizing, and engaging targets. Two versions of the X5 were showcased: the X5-65 and the X5-85.

(Credit: Global Defence Agency)

Basic Weapon Facts

I. Background

Manufacturer: Shengong Technology
Suppliers: In collaboration with the Institute of Automation of the Chinese Academy of Sciences
Country of origin: China
Developmental stage: Approved for production
System version: X5-65 and X5-85
System type: Vertical Loitering Munition / UAV

II. General Specifications

System dimensions: 65 mm x 510 mm (folded)
Weight: Unknown
Max payload: 0.5 kg
Max operating time: 15 min
Max operating Distance/Reach: >2 km
Max speed: 80 km/h (pursuit speed for moving targets: >40 km/h)

III. Autonomy

Autonomous Targeting capabilities: According to developers, both variants are capable of autonomously tracking, detecting, and engaging targets.

Sources