Ever wondered how remote Himalayan plateau communities get their butter tea supplies? This week, China's FP-985 "Taurus" drone showed us the future of logistics in extreme environments! 🚀
On Wednesday, January 14, 2026, the large fixed-wing UAV completed its first long-range plateau logistics flight, covering more than 1,100 km from Nyingchi in the Xizang Autonomous Region to Mianyang in Sichuan Province. The mission carried over 2 tonnes of local goodies like traditional butter tea and yak milk products, marking a major step in connecting high-altitude areas with lowland hubs.
Here's what makes the "Taurus" a game-changer:
- Max takeoff weight: 5.7 tonnes
- Payload capacity: over 2 tonnes
- Ferry range: more than 2,000 km
- All-weather capabilities: anti-icing, lightning protection, high wind resistance
- Designed for extreme conditions: high altitude, cold temperatures, even salt-laden island environments
By establishing a reliable drone route between Sichuan and Xizang, local farmers and producers can get their products to market faster, while residents in plateau areas receive essential supplies more efficiently. Imagine sipping fresh yak milk tea delivered straight by drone – no winding jeep rides needed! 🐂☕
This milestone highlights how unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are transforming agriculture and logistics, especially in regions where roads can't keep up with demand. As tech-savvy youth, keep an eye on how drones are reshaping supply chains around us – the sky's literally the limit! 🌤️
Reference(s):
China's large UAV completes first long-range plateau logistics flight
cgtn.com
