How Does it compare to US Suicide Drones?
Chinese reports noted that the FH-901 is almost similar to our switchblade suicide drones. AeroVironment Switchblade is the most-used loitering munition used by several branches of the military. It is small enough to fit in a backpack but powerful enough to squash targets from miles away.
In 2011, the Switchblade 300 was introduced, and a newer version, the Switchblade 600, with an anti-armor variant, was launched in 2022. The Switchblade 600 is about 54.5 lbs and 51 inches long. It has an operational range of up to 35 miles and a flight altitude of about 500 ft.
The Department of Defense has placed an order for another 300 Switchblade-300 series for $17.8 million, which was the series donated to Ukraine during their campaign in Kharkiv Oblast early in May.
Additionally, these US suicide drones use real-time GPS coordinates and video “for precise targeting with low collateral effects.” The whole kit includes a payload, launcher, and a transport bag that weighs just about 2.5 kg. What is impressive about the Switchblade is that it can disengage or abort a mission at any time and then “recommit to another target depending on what the operator commands,” as noted in a report.
As for the FH-901 series, they have similar loitering altitudes and impact range. However, the FH-901 and FH-901A have an edge when it comes to weight. They’re lighter and more versatile. However, it also boils down to their software. Though the video of the live-fire testing shows an accurate “cut” of the soldiers targeting the tank and the suicide drone “hitting” the target, we’re not entirely sure if it was the actual chronology of events or just good editing.
Meanwhile, US Switchblade 300 Series and Switchblade 600 have both been used in active duty and have been showcased on the world stage during the Ukraine-Russia war.
However, China’s aerospace development says their FH-901s have already “participated in several recent military parades, major exercises, border military operations and anti-terrorism operations at home and abroad, in addition to playing vital roles in emergency disaster relief missions.”
Lastly, these FH-901s have reportedly been cleared for export “with excellent user feedback.”
Watch the video below:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FajlKygp7a8
So, in a face-to-face battle, FH-901 vs Switchblade series, which do you think will win? Send us your thoughts in the comments below!
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