Fresh off the runway! On Thursday, Dec 11, 2025, the Chinese mainland's new Jiutian drone aced its maiden flight in Pucheng, Shaanxi Province 🚀. This general-purpose UAV packs a serious punch:
- Length: 16.35m; wingspan: 25m
- Max takeoff weight: 16 tonnes; payload: 6,000kg
- Flight time: up to 12 hours; ferry range (max empty range): 7,000km
Developed by the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), Jiutian features a high ceiling for soaring above weather, a wide speed range, and short takeoff and landing performance. Its modular system lets you switch roles in no time:
- Heavy cargo delivery to remote areas 🌍
- Emergency communications and disaster relief 🚑
- Geographic surveying and resource mapping 🗺️
Imagine delivering vital supplies to flood-hit Bangladesh, mapping remote islands in Indonesia, or supporting Himalayan villages in Nepal—all without risking pilots. With a 6-tonne payload and 12-hour endurance, Jiutian could reshape civil operations across South and Southeast Asia.
Sky's the limit? Not anymore! ✈️
Reference(s):
China's domestically developed 'Jiutian' drone completes maiden flight
cgtn.com
