China releases first video of hypersonic super UAV test

(CLO) The Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) has released a video revealing the successful testing of the MD-19 unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). This marks the first time this advanced high-speed system has been officially unveiled.

MD-19, developed by the "Qian Xuesen Youth Science and Technology Task Force," a research group named after the renowned aerospace engineer.

In the tests, the MD-19 was launched from both the TB-001 twin-tailed drone and a high-altitude balloon. Images and videos show the MD-19 being launched mid-air from the TB-001 and landing on a conventional runway, but it remains unclear whether the vehicle is powered by an engine or relies solely on its gliding ability to descend.

Video reveals for the first time the launch of China's supersonic drone. (Source: CAS/SCMP) X [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m04G-rskO58[/embed]

The MD-19 measures approximately 2.5 to 3.35 meters in length, smaller than its predecessor, the MD-22, a hypersonic missile unveiled two years prior. The TB-001 drone, used as a launch platform, is nearly 10 meters long. The MD-19 underscores China's growing capabilities in hypersonic and near-space technology, strategically important areas in the global defense competition.

This test flight is part of China's efforts to develop hypersonic vehicles capable of operating at speeds exceeding Mach 5, enabling them to evade missile defense systems and conduct precision strikes. The integration of the MD-19 with the TB-001 also demonstrates progress in multi-platform operations, combining UAVs and hypersonic vehicles to achieve inter-domain maneuverability.

The MD-22 model was displayed at the 2022 Zhuhai Airshow. Photo: Handout

A notable aspect of the tests was the MD-19's ability to land horizontally, a significant step forward demonstrating advancements in resilience and reusability. These are crucial elements for cost-effective hypersonic systems. This development serves not only military purposes but also civilian applications, expanding China's capabilities in hypersonic and near-space domains.

The successful testing of the MD-19 also reflects progress in testing of the MD series in general. Developed by a research team from the Institute of Mechanics (IMECH) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), this team has conducted numerous test flights with various UAV prototypes, including the MD-21, MD-22, and now the MD-19. The success of these test flights will serve as a foundation for future hypersonic developments, including next-generation weapon and surveillance systems.

MD-19 after being released from the TB-001 drone. Photo: Chinese Academy of Sciences.

The successful flight of the MD-19, along with the development of the MD-22 hypersonic drone, has highlighted China's ongoing advancements in aerospace, particularly in hypersonic and space technology. This is part of a broader strategy to bolster the nation's military strength and civilian technological research.

Liu Wen, an associate professor at IMECH, said: "We are currently developing a new generation of aircraft to build faster and more efficient long-range hypersonic vehicles." China's investments in innovative research are laying the groundwork for transformative advances in science and technology.

Since 2021, CAS has established 188 task forces, named after pioneering scientists such as Qian Xuesen, to address critical scientific challenges. These groups have achieved numerous breakthroughs in fundamental science and technology.

For example, the "Li Siguang Tibetan Plateau Paleontology Task Force" discovered the evolution of basins in the North Qiangtang massif and found large coal deposits in the Permian layer. Similarly, the "Wang Dezhao Deep Sea Task Force" developed China's first combat-capable unmanned underwater vehicle.

Ngoc Anh (according to SCMP, Defence Blog, TWZ)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/trung-quoc-lan-dau-cong-bo-video-thu-nghiem-sieu-uav-vuot-am-post326188.html