China's 'Dark Factory' Boosts J-20 Jet Production Efficiency
China has more than doubled the production efficiency of stealth fighter components in a 'dark factory', where autonomous vehicles and AI-driven machinery operate nearly 24 hours a day.
The facility, which produces the 'skeleton' of an aircraft, can now work in near darkness due to advancements in technology, according to the official Science and Technology Daily. This is a significant development for China's aerospace industry, as it aims to increase production capacity and meet growing demand.
According to AP, the factory has been operating since 2020, but its efficiency was boosted recently after upgrading its equipment with AI-driven machinery. Reuters reports that the facility can now produce over 10 components per day, compared to just 4-5 previously.
Experts say this is a major breakthrough for China's aerospace industry, as it could help reduce production costs and increase efficiency. 'This technology has the potential to revolutionise the way we produce aircraft components,' said Dr. Wang Xing, a Chinese engineer who specialises in AI-driven manufacturing.
However, others remain cautious about the development, citing concerns over the potential environmental impact of such facilities. 'While this is an impressive achievement for China's aerospace industry, we must also consider the environmental implications of operating such factories,' said a spokesperson for Greenpeace.
The facility will continue to operate and produce components for China's J-20 jets, with officials working on expanding its production capacity in the coming years.