China’s flurry of UAV platforms refuses to slow down
This is the newest, and largest, member of the Wing Loong UCAV family from AVIC in China. (Photo: Infinty 0, Wikimedia)
The Zhuhai Air Show heralded a range of interesting new UAVs and UCAVs from Chinese manufacturers and developers.
During the event from 8-13 November in China’s southern port city of Zhuhai, two important new UCAVs debuting at the exhibition were the Wing Loong III and Wing Loong 10.
Both are products from AVIC’s stable. The former builds on the success of Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group’s Wing Loong I and II families, being larger and more capable.
The Wing Loong III MALE UCAV has a maximum take-off weight of 6,200kg, which is a rise of 2t compared to its immediate predecessor. It possesses
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
CH-47 Chinook: why the iconic helicopter design is still a heavy-lift contender (updated 2026)
From its emergence as a ground-breaking design in the 1950s to its widespread deployment in diverse operations worldwide, the Chinook continues to leave an indelible mark on the aviation landscape. Shephard sums up the helicopter’s latest developments.
-
How detection-led C-UAS solutions are transforming drone defense
Modern C-UAS solutions must detect threats early, integrate layered sensors, and deliver fast, scalable, adaptable defense against evolving drones.
-
US approves $16.5 billion in ‘emergency’ sales for air defence equipment for Middle East allies
The United Arab Emirates has taken the lion’s share of this round, with the US supporting its F-16 fleet and signing off on possible sales for more AMRAAM AIM-120 missiles and a counter-drone system.
-
How uncrewed rotary platforms are shaping approaches to contested logistics
Defence industry primes are working on an array of different platforms to meet the growing need for rotary uncrewed aerial vehicles to carry out future logistics missions.