China’s PD‑2900 Kamikaze Drone Enters Mass Production, Surpasses Geran‑2 in Range and Payload

In a significant enhancement to its unmanned aerial capabilities, China has begun mass production of the PD‑2900 kamikaze drone—a long-range, stealth-inspired munition that reportedly outperforms Russia’s Geran‑2 (Shahed‑136) in both range and payload capacity.

Impressive Performance and Stealth-Inspired Design

Claimed specifications include:

• Range: Up to 2,500 km

• Endurance: Approximately 12 hours

• Speed: Around 200–250 km/h

Visually, the drone features camouflage mirroring the paint scheme of the Russian Su‑57 stealth fighter, suggesting intentional design cues meant to evoke a stealthy, modern aesthetic.

Advanced Construction and Operational Design

The PD‑2900 is built using carbon fiber and composite materials, providing structural strength while minimizing weight. It incorporates dual gasoline engines, a 160-liter explosion‑proof fuel tank, and offers up to 100 kg of payload—more than double that of earlier kamikaze drones. Launch methods are versatile, including catapult or rocket-assisted takeoff, and the drone supports autonomous navigation and real-time control, with capabilities like networked communication, relay functionality, and anti-jamming measures.

Strategic Implications of Its Deployment

• Outclassing Geran‑2: By significantly extending range and doubling payload capacity, the PD‑2900 stands as a more potent and cost‑effective alternative to Russia’s Geran‑2 system.

• Shift in Warfare Dynamics: Cheap, long-range drones such as this are reshaping modern warfare. Their ability to conduct precise strikes while being economical has made them pivotal in asymmetric tactics.

• Design Symbolism: The Su‑57–style camouflage evokes stealth and modern air combat capabilities, hinting at both the technical aspirations and psychological messaging behind the drone’s presentation.

China’s move to mass-produce the PD‑2900 drone marks a notable development in the unmanned warfare domain. With its extended reach, robust payload, stealth-like design, and autonomous capabilities, it represents a significant leap forward from existing Russian-style loitering munitions such as the Geran‑2. This advancement is poised to further consolidate drone-based precision strikes as central to strategic military operations.