Chinese military fans are eagerly awaiting the unveiling of Sharp Sword, a stealth combat drone that military observers claim will soon conduct its maiden flight.

"Military and aviation fans have been waiting so long to see the Sharp Sword fly high in the sky," said Qu Renming, a white-collar worker in Beijing and military enthusiast. "Fans exchange what they know about the drone and the possible date of its first test flight on military websites. Some people who boast of acquaintances in aviation sector say the maiden flight will take place within a couple of months."

His words were echoed by Liu Zhikai, a university lecturer who has long followed China's aviation industry.