16.12.2025 06:50
The new generation unmanned aerial vehicle CH-7, developed by China with domestic capabilities and featuring a flying wing design similar to that of the ANKA-3, successfully completed its first flight test. Officials announced that the test was completed in accordance with all planned objectives.
The new generation unmanned aerial vehicle CH-7 of China successfully completed its first flight at a test site located in the northwest of the country. In a statement made by the 11th Academy of the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), it was reported that the first flight was completed smoothly in line with the planned objectives and that the data obtained largely matched expectations.
"AN IMPORTANT MILESTONE HAS BEEN REACHED"
Officials emphasized that this flight represents an important milestone in verifying the CH-7's fundamental design approach and critical technological capabilities. It was noted that the platform's flight performance and core systems operated successfully during the test.
EFFECTIVELY USABLE IN LONG-RANGE MISSIONS
With its high aspect ratio flying wing aerodynamic structure, the CH-7 is designed to be effectively used in high-altitude and long-range missions. It was also stated that the platform, which aims to reduce radar visibility, has been developed to carry various payloads, primarily including electro-optical and infrared sensors.
CORE MANEUVERABILITY TESTED
Li Jianhua, one of the project leaders of the CH-7, stated that the first flight is a critical threshold for every air platform, noting that the design philosophy and core technological achievements have been validated in the field with the conducted test. It was reported that during the flight, autonomous taxiing, takeoff and landing processes, flight stability, tracking performance, and core maneuverability were tested.
PERFORMANCE RESULTS ARE POSITIVE
Li Jianhua noted that the results obtained are largely consistent with simulations and ground tests, stating that the performance parameters closely matched the anticipated design values. Officials also explained that the first flight only covered basic flight characteristics, and that tests for software validations and the integration of different payloads will be conducted in later stages.