China's aviation sector marked a milestone on December 11 as the Jiutian large unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) completed its maiden flight in Shaanxi Province. Developed by the state-owned Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), this 16.35-meter-long drone boasts a 25-meter wingspan and 16-tonne maximum takeoff capacity.
Engineered for versatility, the Jiutian features a 7,000-kilometer operational range and 12-hour flight endurance. Its 6,000-kilogram payload capacity enables heavy supply transportation to remote regions, while advanced aerodynamics allow short takeoffs from unprepared airstrips – critical for disaster response operations.
"This platform bridges a crucial gap in civilian heavy-lift UAV capabilities," an AVIC representative stated. The drone's modular design supports rapid configuration for medical equipment delivery, telecommunications infrastructure deployment, and wildfire monitoring missions.
Analysts note the Jiutian's potential to enhance regional connectivity across Asia's mountainous terrain, particularly for ASEAN nations seeking cost-effective logistics solutions. The development aligns with China's 2025 technology modernization goals, emphasizing dual-use applications in civilian infrastructure and emergency management systems.
