China’s Innovation: The HH-100 Unmanned Cargo Aircraft

The HH-100 is a self-developed unmanned cargo aircraft from China. This aircraft is a significant innovation in the field of cargo drones. Developed by AVIC XAC Commercial Aircraft Co., Ltd. in Xi’an, northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, the HH-100 is a testament to China’s flourishing express delivery industry and the government’s efforts to make full use of China’s low-altitude airspace.

The HH-100 is a twin-engine, high-wing, high-tail boom configuration UAV with a large bulbous middle section fuselage. This design presumably accommodates cargo, with the space afforded by the absence of a manned crew. The aircraft has a maximum take-off weight of 2,000-kilograms, can carry 700-kg of cargo to a distance of 520-km at full weight, clock a maximum speed of 300-km an hour and touch an altitude of 5,000-meters according to AVIC.

The HH-100 unmanned transport aircraft flew its maiden flight on Jun. 12, 2024, in the country’s northwestern Shaanxi Province. The test validated the “stable performance” and met the “test-flight requirements” of all major systems, where the aircraft itself, airframe, the “ground-based command-and-control station… (worked) well.”

The aircraft was announced ready for its maiden flight on Apr. 3, 2024, after it performed a “final high-speed taxi trial". The HH-100 successfully undertook “rotation” – lifting its nose wheel at take-off speed. It demonstrated “stable performance and precise autonomous taxiing control,” thereby " (clearing itself) for its maiden flight.”

The drone has a wide array of civilian applications including primarily emergency-oriented roles. “These include feeder logistics, fire suppression in forests and grasslands, fire monitoring, transportation and delivery of emergency supplies, communication relay, and even artificial rain enhancement,” CGTN said, quoting company officials.

The HH-100 is a significant step forward in the development of unmanned cargo aircraft. With its successful maiden flight and promising applications, the HH-100 is set to revolutionize the cargo drone industry. It also underscores China’s commitment to innovation and the advancement of its aviation industry.