China Aviation Industry Group Co., Ltd. has announced that the "Jiutian" unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) has triumphantly completed its inaugural flight in Pucheng, Shaanxi Province. As a large-scale, versatile UAV independently developed by China, the "Jiutian" boasts a design that integrates a "general-purpose platform with modular mission payloads." This innovative approach endows it with numerous advantages, including a substantial payload capacity, a high operational ceiling, a broad speed range, and remarkably short takeoff and landing distances.

Specifically, the "Jiutian" UAV measures 16.35 meters in length and has a wingspan of 25 meters. It can achieve a maximum takeoff weight of 16 tons and carry a payload of up to 6,000 kilograms. Furthermore, it offers an impressive flight endurance of 12 hours and a ferry range extending to 7,000 kilometers, setting it apart with its leading performance indicators.

The successful completion of its maiden flight heralds a significant milestone, representing a new breakthrough in China's large-scale UAV technology. The "Jiutian" UAV was meticulously designed by the AVIC No.1 Aircraft Institute, following a commission from Shaanxi Unmanned Equipment Technology Co., Ltd.