The new model features a shortened takeoff and landing distance, increased payload capacity, and extended flight range.
The Chinese hybrid unmanned cargo aircraft YH-1000S, the first of its kind in the world, made its maiden flight in Chongqing, Southwest China, the developer reported.
According to the 11th Institute of the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), during its debut flight, the YH-1000S was equipped with a high-power hybrid power plant developed in collaboration with a manufacturer of vehicles powered by new energy sources. The new model features a shortened takeoff and landing distance, increased payload capacity, and extended flight range compared to its predecessor, the YH-1000, which made its first flight in May of last year.
The design of this large-scale transport drone took into account the needs of potential customers in global markets. It can be used in various fields such as international logistics and transportation, emergency rescue operations and disaster relief, artificial weather modification, marine environment monitoring, and maritime regulation, the institute reported.
The predecessor YH1000 (CH‑YH1000) was a large cargo drone with two engines capable of carrying up to 1.2 tons of cargo over a distance of up to 1,500 km and remaining airborne for up to 10 hours. It is equipped with four cargo pallets, each with a volume of one cubic meter, and loading and unloading can be done through the front or the lower panel. The drone could take off and land on unpaved sites, compacted roads, and grass, and when equipped with floats or ski landing gear, it could operate on water and snow.
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