China has completed the maiden flight of the Tianma-1000, an unmanned cargo aircraft capable of logistics and emergency responses, China Central Television reported on January 11.
The Tianma-1000, developed by China North Industries Group, is the country’s first mid-altitude, low-cost transport platform. The aircraft is able to navigate complex highland terrains, execute ultra-short takeoffs and landings, and switch between cargo and air-drop missions, said CCTV.
The aircraft is designed for multi-functional roles including cargo transport, emergency rescue, and air-drop operations. It can reach a maximum altitude of 8,000 meters, fly a range of 1,800 kilometers, and carry a payload of one ton — enabling the delivery of substantial supplies in a single flight, according to CCTV.
