China unveils a new long-haul drone with a take-off weight of 1,500 kg

Our reporter Zhang Jiajun

In 2013, a Chinese drone was spotted in the airspace near the Diaoyu Islands, responding to an emergency evacuation of a Japanese fighter jet. This marked the first public appearance of the BZK-005 "Changying" long-range drone on the global stage. A few years later, its upgraded version made a bold debut. On November 13, it was reported that the most advanced "Tianying" unmanned drone in its class had just rolled off the production line in Taizhou, Zhejiang. The "Global Times" reporter spoke with chief designer Wang Jianping about the capabilities of this cutting-edge aircraft.

Wang Jianping explained that the "Tianying" stands out due to its advanced aerodynamic design. The aircraft's wing has an exceptional lift-to-drag ratio, with a maximum takeoff weight of up to 1,500 kg. It can carry 650 kg of fuel and mission equipment, allowing it to simultaneously deploy optical-electronic systems, radar, electronic warfare equipment, and more for multi-mode reconnaissance. At the event, reporters observed the "Aquila" model, which features a straight-wing design and four wings beneath the main structure, capable of being used as an attack platform. According to reports, when conducting surveillance and combat missions, it can be equipped with heavier weapons, significantly enhancing its strike capabilities.

Second, intelligent control is a core technology in modern drones, affecting flight accuracy, safety, and the skill level required from operators. Wang Jianping revealed that the "Tianying" uses intelligent autonomous control technology, enabling one-button takeoff, autonomous flight, and automatic landing. Operators only need minimal training to manage the aircraft. It integrates navigation, flight control, and mission equipment into a single system, allowing it to automatically search, track targets, and perform real-time positioning during reconnaissance missions.

U.S. military drones have faced frequent crashes during conflicts, prompting the "Eagle" to prioritize safety alongside reliability. Its rudder surfaces, control mechanisms, sensors, navigation systems, flight computers, and electrical systems all use dual redundancy designs. With intelligent redundancy management and control law reconstruction technology, backup systems can maintain flight control in case of primary system failure, ensuring safe operations.

Wang Jianping also emphasized that as a reconnaissance platform, the "Tianying" is equipped with next-generation optical reconnaissance equipment meeting international standards. This includes a multi-sensor, multi-spectral ultra-long-range imaging system with a range of up to 50 km and advanced image processing capabilities. Using compound-axis control technology, it ensures clear and stable long-distance imaging, along with strong anti-interference performance in complex environments. Even at 3,000 meters altitude, it can clearly identify license plate numbers on the ground. â–²

Tinned Copper Wire

Tinned Copper Wire,Tinned Copper,Tin Coated Copper Wire,Tin Plated Copper Wire

Sowell Electric CO., LTD. , https://www.sowellsolar.com