PLA shows off new UCAV, while CH-5 achieves sale to Iraq
The KVD002, presumed to be a customised variant of the CH-4, has entered PLA service. (Photo: Chinese internet)
The People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) is an avid user of UCAVs, with the likes of the Wing Loong II and WZ-10 in its inventory. Now, the PLA ground force has adopted similar UCAVs while, farther afield, Iraq has likely emerged as the first customer for the CH-5.
At the China Helicopter Exhibition in Tianjin, held from 14-17 September, the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) exhibited a KVD002 UCAV, which it claimed was the service’s first reconnaissance and strike UAV.
The PLA said the platform can conduct long-endurance reconnaissance, and perform precision strikes against targets such as air defence weapons,
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
TAI and Airbus collaborate on Hurjet trainer for Spain
The Hurjet is pitched as the front runner for the Spanish Air Force’s Advanced Jet Trainer replacement programme for its ageing F-5M aircraft.
-
Bell’s FLRAA receives MV-75 designation from US Army, first operational division revealed
The US Army also added that it would push to get the long-range assault aircraft online “years ahead” of its original 2030 timeline.
-
UK RAF’s Protector programme hits new milestones, more aircraft expected this year
Further tests will be carried out on the existing fleet, ahead of the Royal Air Force’s anticipated transition from MQ-9A Reaper aircraft to the MQ-9B Protector by the end of 2025.
-
US approves $1.45 billion sale to UAE for CH-47 Chinooks and F-16 sustainment
Both the possible sale for six Chinook helicopters and F-16 sustainment will bolster existing UAE fleets and the country’s position as a US partner and ally, according to the DSCA.
-
US Army cancels FTUAS and the MQ-1 Gray Eagle as part of the Army Transformation Initiative
Last week, it was revealed that the US Army intended to cancel the long-running Future Tactical UAS (FTUAS). The revelation, no doubt part of the Army Transformation Initiative (ATI), came a week after the force highlighted that it would cancel the procurement of Gray Eagle aircraft.