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In a groundbreaking achievement, Chinese scientists have successfully developed a hypersonic drone capable of executing a horizontal landing on a runway, marking a significant advancement in drone technology. This feat, the result of several years of research, could pave the way for new developments in drone capabilities and deployment.
According to a report published in the portal Bulgarian Military, the test involved the MD-19 hypersonic drone, which was launched mid-air from the Tengden TB-001, a medium-altitude long-endurance (MALE) drone. The TB-001, developed by the Chinese company Tengoen, is a versatile unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) designed for both reconnaissance and strike missions. It is capable of carrying payloads of up to 2,800 kilograms and serves as the launch platform for the MD-19.
A recent video surfaced online, showing the TB-001 releasing the MD-19 drone mid-flight. The MD-19 then flew at hypersonic speeds before performing a successful horizontal landing on a runway. This is a major achievement, as most hypersonic vehicles, which are primarily used in military applications, are designed for one-way missions and are not recoverable after deployment. Unlike these traditional hypersonic vessels, the MD-19 can be safely recovered and reused, significantly lowering operational costs.
One of the most remarkable features of the MD-19 is its ability to decelerate from hypersonic to subsonic speeds, allowing it to land safely on a conventional runway. This capability sets it apart from other high-speed drones, which typically rely on specialized landing zones or are destroyed after completing their missions.
Additionally, the MD-19’s mid-air launch capability means that it does not require traditional ground-based launch facilities or runways, providing more flexibility for its deployment. While details about the drone’s propulsion system remain limited, it is speculated that the MD-19 uses a rocket engine, rather than an air-breathing scramjet, to achieve its hypersonic speeds.
As of now, further specifics about the MD-19 are unknown, but this advancement could be impactful for the future of hypersonic drone technology.
