Russian state news outlet Sputnik News recently reported that China has achieved a significant milestone in unmanned aerial vehicle technology with the successful maiden flight of the “Tianma-1000” cargo drone on January 11. Developed independently by Xi’an ASN Technology Group Corporation under China Weapons Industry Group, the aircraft performed well across all flight parameters during its inaugural test, according to China Central Television.
The Tianma-1000 represents China’s first medium-altitude, low-cost transport platform capable of adapting to complex highland terrain while performing ultra-short takeoff and landing operations. The drone integrates multiple functions including logistics transportation, emergency rescue, and material delivery, with the ability to rapidly switch between cargo transport and airdrop modes through its modular cargo bay design.
The aircraft boasts impressive technical specifications, including a service ceiling of 8,000 meters and a maximum range of 1,800 kilometers. Remarkably, it requires less than 200 meters of runway for takeoff and landing, making it suitable for operations in confined or challenging environments. The drone can carry a maximum payload of one ton, equivalent to the weight of a standard passenger car.
Officials highlight the Tianma-1000’s potential to address critical supply chain challenges in remote and difficult-to-reach areas. During emergency rescue operations or urgent material deployment scenarios, a single aircraft can transport sufficient food, medicine, and equipment to meet several days’ worth of requirements. This capability enables large-scale, single-sortie deliveries that can resolve material transportation difficulties in special geographic regions.
The successful test flight marks an important advancement in China’s unmanned logistics capabilities, particularly for applications in remote supply operations, emergency response, and rapid material redistribution across challenging terrain where traditional transportation methods face significant limitations.
Source: Sputnik News, January 12, 2026
https://sputniknews.cn/20260112/1069270600.html