China may have taken a significant step forward in the development of low-observable unmanned air capabilities with the recording of what appears to be the first flight of the CH-7, a large, high-altitude stealth drone developed by the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) to equip the Chinese Air Force.
The inaugural flight reportedly took place recently at an airfield in northwestern China and marked the formal start of the flight-test phase for this flying-wing–configured aircraft, which had previously been displayed at past editions of Airshow China.
Start of the flight-test campaign
Li Jianhua, a CASC representative, explained that the first flight constitutes “an exceptionally critical milestone for any aircraft.” According to the executive, the main objective of this stage was to validate the soundness of the design and verify the progress achieved in key technologies.
During this initial test, basic parameters were evaluated, such as autonomous taxiing, automatic takeoff and landing, attitude control, and trajectory tracking. According to Li, the results fully matched the design specifications and the previously established simulation models.
The official also noted that, compared to other unmanned aerial vehicles, the CH-7 requires validation of a greater number of critical technologies. This is due, among other factors, to its tailless design and high-aspect-ratio wing, which introduce greater challenges in terms of directional stability and increase the complexity and risks associated with the initial test.
CASC indicated that this flight assessed only the most basic characteristics of the platform. In the next stages, the CH-7 will have to undergo additional flight-performance trials and tests of the operation of its payloads, including sensors and other mission systems.
Stealth design and technical features
The CH-7 adopts a flying-wing aerodynamic configuration optimized for high-altitude operations and low detectability. During Airshow China 2024, a full-scale airframe of the drone was displayed for the first time. On that occasion, it was observed that the engine intake is located on the upper part of the fuselage, while the exhaust nozzle features a partially concealed design.
The aircraft incorporates radar-signature-reduction measures such as absorptive treatments on the leading edges, special surface coatings, and low-observable solutions applied to doors, landing gear, internal bays, and structural elements, including fasteners.
According to official information, this configuration would allow the CH-7 to operate both in low-threat scenarios and in environments densely protected by radars and air defense systems.
Planned missions and operational employment
In demonstration animations presented during Airshow China 2024, the CH-7 was shown conducting prolonged patrols over maritime areas. Upon detecting a target, the platform would be capable of transmitting information to command centers via data links, providing mid-course or terminal guidance for long-range weapons.
Experts indicated that the CH-7 would be primarily intended for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, both over land and at sea. Its onboard radar would enable the detection of large naval targets, as well as the conduct of covert reconnaissance in highly contested combat environments.
Role within the Chinese Air Force framework
Chinese analysts noted that, due to its aerodynamic design, the CH-7’s speed would be lower than that of modern fighter aircraft, meaning it would not be intended to operate as a “wingman” in close air combat. Instead, its employment would be oriented toward forward operations in combat zones, leveraging its low observability and high endurance to conduct extended search and surveillance missions.
Once a target is identified, the drone could serve as a designation or data-relay platform for strikes carried out by other aircraft or by long-range missiles launched from land- or sea-based platforms.
With this development progressing at an advanced stage, China continues to expand its portfolio of stealth drones, amid growing interest in unmanned platforms capable of operating at high altitude and penetrating heavily defended airspace.
*Cover image: Credits to whom it may concern.
*Translated by Constanza Matteo
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