A significant milestone has been achieved in the Chinese mainland’s unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) program as the homegrown HH-100 cargo drone is now cleared for its maiden flight.
Developed by Xi’an Aircraft Industry, a subsidiary of the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), the HH-100 successfully completed its final high-speed taxi test on April 3. During the test, the drone performed a “rotation,” lifting its nose wheel at takeoff speed, demonstrating stable performance and precise autonomous taxiing control.
The HH-100 is an innovative unmanned cargo aircraft that combines a UAV with a dedicated ground station. It offers several key advantages, including affordability, high cargo capacity, and the distinction of being entirely built using domestically sourced components.
With a maximum takeoff weight of 2,000 kilograms, the HH-100 can carry a payload of 700 kg over a distance of 520 kilometers at a cruising speed of up to 300 km per hour. Capable of operating at a maximum altitude of 5,000 meters, it is suitable for a wide range of applications, such as feeder logistics, forest and grassland fire suppression and monitoring, transportation and delivery of emergency supplies, communication relay, and artificial rain enhancement.
AVIC employs a collaborative development model for the HH-100, partnering with internal units and private enterprises to produce crucial components, fostering innovation and integration within China’s aviation industry.
The imminent maiden flight of the HH-100 marks a significant step forward in the Chinese mainland’s UAV capabilities, showcasing the nation’s advancements in aerospace technology and its commitment to developing indigenous solutions to meet diverse logistical and environmental challenges.
Reference(s):
China's homegrown HH-100 cargo drone ready for maiden flight
cgtn.com
