Chinese aviation took a leap forward on March 26 as the "Hunjianglong" amphibious drone successfully completed a historic river takeoff and landing in Chengdu. Developed by Sichuan Tengden Science and Technology, this versatile unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) could transform industries relying on remote operations and challenging terrain access.
With a 12.4-meter wingspan and 16-hour flight endurance, the Hunjianglong boasts a 2,800 km range and 200 kg payload capacity. Its ability to operate from waterways, roads, and uneven landscapes reduces dependence on conventional runways – a breakthrough for China\u2019s low-altitude economy sector focused on sub-3,000 meter airspace utilization.
Industry analysts highlight its potential for disaster response and environmental monitoring. "This drone can deliver supplies to flood zones, monitor wildfires in real time, or conduct river conservation surveys," explained a Chengdu-based aviation researcher. The technology also holds promise for precision agriculture and geographic mapping in mountainous regions.
As global interest grows in UAV applications, the Hunjianglong positions China at the forefront of cargo transport innovation. Its development aligns with national efforts to integrate smart technologies into infrastructure planning, particularly in southwest China\u2019s ecologically diverse areas.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com