Special Report: China advances UAV programmes
The Chengdu hybrid-hydrogen UAV incorporates a three-in-one power source, according to AVIC. (AVIC/Janes)
China is continuing to diversify its unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) programmes, with state-owned companies unveiling new platforms in 2026 and reporting progress on previously disclosed systems.
In 2026, the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) unveiled and flight-tested three new UAVs: a hybrid energy-powered platform, a cargo UAV, and a vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) surveillance system with a pusher-propulsion configuration.
AVIC has also outlined progress on its AR-500CJ and the new AR-600 shipborne rotary-wing UAVs. Separately, details have emerged of a fixed-wing VTOL reconnaissance UAV developed by China North Industries Group Corporation (Norinco) that is in service with the People's Liberation Army (PLA).
Hybrid energy UAV
AVIC announced on its Weibo account that its subsidiary Chengdu conducted the first flight of a hybrid energy-powered UAV for low-altitude surveillance and reconnaissance in March.
The platform, tentatively known as the ‘long-endurance silent hybrid hydrogen energy UAV', demonstrates the use of a ‘three-in-one' power system in a small aircraft designed for low-altitude operations, the company said.
The UAV combines photovoltaic (solar) cells, hydrogen fuel cells, and lithium batteries to optimise energy management, providing an approximate 10% increase in endurance over battery-powered UAVs, AVIC said.
The UAV's photovoltaic panels are fixed to the upper surfaces of its wings, according to AVIC footage released on its Weibo account. This indicates that the platform is capable of continuous power generation. In the video, the UAV was shown operating at altitudes below 2,000 m.
According to AVIC, the UAV is designed to incorporate modular payloads and features integrated hybrid energy management and an independent navigation architecture. Footage also shows a retractable electro-optic/infrared (EO/IR) sensor mounted at the rear of the fuselage.
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