China has successfully conducted the first flight of the Tianma-1000, a new unmanned cargo aircraft designed for logistics support and emergency missions, according to state broadcaster China Central Television.
Developed by China North Industries Group, the Tianma-1000 is described as China’s first low-cost, mid-altitude unmanned transport aircraft. The platform is built to operate in challenging environments, including high-altitude regions, and is capable of very short takeoffs and landings.
The aircraft can be configured for multiple roles, ranging from cargo delivery to airdrop and disaster-response operations. It is designed to fly up to 8,000 meters, has a range of roughly 1,800 kilometers, and can carry payloads of up to one metric ton, allowing it to transport significant supplies in a single sortie.