China advances WZ-X flying wing UAV testing and pitches Wing Loong 10B for export

China is pressing ahead with its uncrewed aircraft programs. New photos of the WZ-X flying wing UAV have surfaced on Chinese social media, apparently taken over Xinjiang. The images show a large wingspan and high aspect ratio, which suit long-range, high-altitude missions.

The WZ-X also has a serrated trailing edge like that of the B-2 stealth bomber. This was not clearly visible when the aircraft first emerged in August 2025. Given how common AI image manipulation is now, observers caution that such photos should be treated carefully. Still, many analysts following Chinese military aviation believe the latest images are authentic.

The design resembles the U.S. Air Force's RQ-180, which has led to speculation that the WZ-X is meant for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance work in or near contested airspace. It might also have a maritime role, hunting and tracking naval forces in the Pacific.

Separately, Chinese state media reported that AVIC's exhibit at the El Alamein air show includes a Wing Loong 10B UAV, designated WZ-10B in China. The model on display, probably a mockup, is shown carrying a PL-12AE air-to-air missile and other weapons. Whether the UAV itself has undergone air-to-air testing is not clear. The WZ-10, also called Cloud Shadow, is already in service with China's military and has been seen on reconnaissance flights.