China’s new 7-tonne unmanned cargo drone set for maiden flight

China’s first 7-tonne-class large transport drone, Changying-8, is set for its maiden flight on Tuesday in Zhengzhou, Henan Province, after completing all pre-flight preparations.
Developed by China North Industries Group, the 17-meter-long, 25-meter wingspan drone has an 18-cubic-meter cargo hold, carrying multiple standard containers or specialized cold-chain boxes, with loading and unloading completed in 15 minutes.
It has a maximum takeoff weight of 7 tonnes, a 3.5-tonne payload, and a range over 3,000 kilometers. Capable of high-altitude and short runway operations, it is expected to support e-commerce logistics, supplies to remote regions, emergency rescue, and disaster relief.
Credit : CGTN