China tests largest military drone ever made domestically

Iran Press TV

Sun Jul 16, 2017 8:38PM

China has finished testing its largest ever military unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), the Caihong-5, which is now ready for mass production.

According to China Global Television Network (CGTN), the drone has a wingspan of 21 meters and is capable of carrying up to one ton.

Caihong-5 is the largest in the Caihong (rainbow) series of Chinese UAV with a maximum range of 10,000 kilometers and can maintain a flight time of 60 hours.

It can be used for reconnaissance, surveillance, patrol, target positioning and strike missions. It is also capable of civilian operations such as resource surveying, disaster survey or emergency responses.

"We've made several modifications after its debut, and its comprehensive functions are among the world's best," said Shi Wen, the project's chief engineer at the China Academy of Aerospace Aerodynamics.

"We will conduct more trial flights and might add fine changes to meet needs of various customers. We believe it will be a success in domestic and international markets," he noted.