China flies new naval UAV variant for the first time
An image of the AR-500CJ VTOL naval UAV during its maiden flight earlier this month. (Photo: AVIC)
China is working on new UAVs for naval use, plus a heavy fuel version of the CH-4 has taken to the air for the first time.
The AR-500CJ, a UAV likely destined for operations aboard People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessels, has achieved its maiden flight, AVIC of China announced on its official social media account on 10 August.
The flight – incorporating a take-off, hovering and landing – occurred at Poyang in Jiangxi Province. The aircraft is now ready to commence further flight testing, with a technical evaluation slated for next year.
As a rotary-winged design, it would be able to take off and land from PLAN surface combatants and aircraft carriers if the military eventually adopts it.
In terms of performance specifications, the AR-500CJ
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
![Germany could secure greater influence through sixth-generation fighter partnership with Sweden and Spain]()
Germany could secure greater influence through sixth-generation fighter partnership with Sweden and Spain
Germany is assessing potential pathways for a future sixth-generation fighter capability, including discussions with GCAP partners and Sweden.
-
![Loyal wingman programmes gather pace as US and European procurement plans take shape]()
Loyal wingman programmes gather pace as US and European procurement plans take shape
Northrop Grumman, Airbus and Anduril are positioning their uncrewed aerial vehicles for future collaborative combat aircraft contracts in a market that is forecast to exceed $36 billion.
-
![India’s military integration drive faces interoperability hurdles]()
India’s military integration drive faces interoperability hurdles
Senior military leaders have highlighted the need for interoperable systems, common data standards and closer cooperation between India's armed services.
-
![UK A400M Saudi deployment highlights airlifter’s role as Airbus pursues upgrades]()
UK A400M Saudi deployment highlights airlifter’s role as Airbus pursues upgrades
Airbus is developing new capabilities for its A400M transport aircraft as European countries consider future airlift requirements and the UK plans to deploy the aircraft to Saudi Arabia.
