The Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) announced that its Tian Jiu unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) completed its first test flight on 11/12 in Pucheng County, Shaanxi province. AVIC unveiled this aircraft model at the Zhuhai Airshow in November 2024.

AVIC reports the Tian Jiu UAV boasts a top speed of 700 km/h, a flight ceiling of 15,000 m, a range of approximately 7,000 km, and an endurance of up to 12 hours. The aircraft is over 16 m long, with a 25 m wingspan and a payload capacity of about 6 tons. Its large modular cargo bay allows for diverse missions, including deploying dozens of smaller drones.

Tian Jiu UAV during its test flight in Shaanxi province, China on 11/12. Video: X/Dragon Wong

The Tian Jiu operates with a single turbofan engine located on the upper fuselage near the tail, featuring subtly swept wings and an H-tail. The prototype, showcased at last year's Zhuhai Airshow, had four hardpoints under each wing. These can carry PL-12 medium-range air-to-air missiles, TL-17 cruise missiles, and precision-guided bombs.

Under its nose, the UAV carries a sensor cluster, typically including electro-optical and infrared cameras. This position also integrates a laser designator for guiding precision weapons.

"The Tian Jiu combines design elements of the American A-10 attack aircraft and the OV-10. Its robust landing gear allows the UAV to operate from rough airstrips at forward operating bases," said Joseph Trevithick, an editor for the US military news site War Zone.

Trevithick also noted the Tian Jiu is significantly larger than most armed UAVs globally.

Tian Jiu UAV during its test flight in Shaanxi province, China on 11/12. Photo: X/Rupprecht Deino

AVIC highlighted the Tian Jiu UAV's capability to transport cargo to remote areas, supporting disaster relief, geographical surveys, and resource mapping.

"AVIC's strong focus on the Tian Jiu's non-military applications is noteworthy, underscoring the interconnectedness of China's civil and military aviation industries," Trevithick observed.

Nguyen Tien (According to War Zone, AFP, AP)