Chinese aviation company AVIC announced that its hydrogen-powered drone has set a new record for sustained flight for aircraft of this class.
A company report stated: "Our new 50-kilogram drone has set a record for sustained flight for a hydrogen-fueled drone of its class."
The report indicated that the drone was launched from a platform resembling a small, remote-controlled car. After takeoff, the drone was able to fly for 30 continuous hours. The drone carried advanced surveillance equipment and cameras.
According to AVIC, the new aircraft will be equipped with communications equipment capable of connecting to 5G networks, enabling it to transmit real-time images and data to the ground, making it an excellent tool for airborne surveillance operations. Experts at the company also noted that hydrogen-fueled drones have a low thermal footprint, which could open up prospects for their future use in military fields.
According to experts, the new aircraft will be multi-purpose, serving in air traffic control missions, providing emergency communications in remote areas, environmental monitoring, rescue missions, and monitoring areas affected by natural disasters.