China’s First Unmanned Convertiplane Takes Flight for the First Time

The prototype of China’s first unmanned 6-ton Lanying R6000 convertiplane has taken to the skies for the first time.

This was reported by China Science.

The new aircraft will be able to carry up to 12 passengers over a distance of up to four thousand kilometers.

The first flight of the R6000 took place in the city of Deyang, in Sichuan Province, in southwestern China.

It is not reported how long the prototype of the convertiplane stayed in the air. The Chinese only published a photo from the test site.

The Lanying R6000 was developed by United Aircraft. The company claims that the unmanned aerial vehicle is capable of reaching speeds of up to 550 kilometers per hour, with a maximum flight altitude of 7,600 meters.

The maximum declared flight range of the Convertiplane is 4000 kilometers. The payload weight can reach two tons.

The Lanying R6000 can accommodate six to 12 people for interregional flights. A month ago, the prototype was tested for hovering in the air at a low altitude.

The device can perform vertical takeoff and landing like a helicopter, which is its advantage, while it reaches higher speeds during horizontal flight than helicopters. The Chinese convertiplane has rotors that are structurally similar to those installed on the American Bell V-280 Valor.

It is possible that the R6000 will be used for military purposes, including the transportation of personnel or participation in other missions.

The payload capacity of the aircraft allows it to be used for surveillance, reconnaissance, electronic warfare and signal relay.

The developer, United Aircraft, plans to bring the convertiplane to market after completing flight and other tests.