China tested the CH-4 strike and reconnaissance drone with an upgraded engine
The authorities of the People's Republic of China have tested a CH-4 drone with a new Chinese-made engine.
What we know
The developer of the CH-4 strike and reconnaissance drone is the Chinese company China Aerospace Science Corporation. The new engine makes it possible to increase the payload capacity of the drone by 30-50%. The manufacturer also claims an increase in range and cruising speed.
The drone with the old engine can stay in the air for up to 30 hours. Cruising speed is 180 km/h. This is a standard figure for CH family drones. Bulgarian Military's sources note that the new engine has increased the flight time of the CH-4 to 40 hours. The speed increase is not specified.
CH-4 reminds American MQ-9 Reaper and exists in two variants: CH-4A and CH-4B. The first is used for reconnaissance, and the second can act as an attack drone. Which of the two versions has been tested is currently not specified. The combat version can be equipped with AR-1 and AR-2 guided missiles, AKD-10 anti-tank / missiles, as well as FT-7/130, FT-9/50, FT-10/25, GB-4/100 and GB-7/50 bombs.
China is not the only operator of the CH-4. Myanmar, Pakistan, Egypt, Iraq and Saudi Arabia have all adopted the drone.
Source: Bulgarian Military
Source: The National Interest
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