China has unveiled a video of its cargo drone, the HH-100, tested last April, developed by Xi’an Aircraft Industry (a subsidiary of the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC)), now known to be manufactured by Tengden Industries, a company specialized in the aerospace industry. On April 3rd, the drone conducted taxiing and pre-takeoff maneuvers, and on June 12th, 2024, the HH-100 completed its first flight. This opens up new possibilities for freight delivery in remote areas, with many potential applications for the Chinese military in terms of delivery and even evacuation of the wounded.
With a robust design that supports a maximum takeoff weight of 2,000 kilograms and a payload capacity of 700 kilograms, this local innovation is poised to significantly enhance the speed and efficiency of delivering essential supplies in crisis zones. The taxiing and ground maneuvers were tested in April 2024, and the first flight took place in June 2024.
The HH-100’s operational capabilities allow it to travel up to 2,000 kilometers at cruising speeds of 300 km/h, ensuring rapid delivery of food, medicine, and other critical supplies to affected areas. This range and speed surpass many existing models, enabling quicker reactions to urgent needs, which is crucial during the initial hours following a disaster when roads are often unavailable.