China Unveils its Soaring Dragon UAV

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A video released by the Chinese Air Force shows its WZ-7 jet-powered high-altitude, long-endurance (HALE), reconnaissance unmanned aircraft.

The large drone, also known as “Soaring Dragon”, has been in Chiese Air Force service since at least 2019 according to defence-blog.com.

The drone is built of a large number of composite materials. Its radar cross-sectional area is not large, presumably less than the typical fighter target.

The drone’s joined wing allows for a more rigid, less flexible wing than other configurations, with benefits said to include an increased lift-to-drag ratio and less complex flight controls than a HALE UAV with a conventional wing.