I'm thinking of applying such VTOL technologies onto combat drones would be more likely.
Designing and producing VTOL combat drones would be less demanding and challenging than, say, F-35Bs, since the risk of accidents with personel onboard is eliminated. Moreover, the removal of pilot alongside the piloting equipment and supporting systems would signficantly lighten the combat drone. This is very useful for increasing weight allocation for more weapon loadouts and fuel onboard such combat drones.
Besides, with the US showcasing how VTOL technology isn't just possible, but also achievable (despite being pretty difficult), China certainly has the capability to develop her own VTOL-based combat drones (or fighter jets). In fact, I would say that the US has always been an excellent teacher for China.
Such VTOL combat drones would be very useful when operated from Type 075 LHDs and Type 076 LHAs in a Taiwan and/or South China Sea contigency, as they could operate as light aircraft carriers alongside mainline Type 00X aircraft carriers, and/or for striking land-based enemies.
The recently conducted concept test for an LHA/LHD-based light aircraft carrier by fitting and operating 20 F-35Bs onboard USS Tripoli has demonstrated just that. The nearly-commissioned TCG Anadolu light carrier further enforces such drone-carrier concepts as well.
CRDE might replace lift fan to support vertical take-off.
