China’s TP1000, the nation’s first large unmanned transport aircraft capable of hauling over 1 ton of cargo, has successfully completed its inaugural flight in Qingdao, Shandong Province. The 26-minute test flight achieved all performance targets, marking a milestone in autonomous heavy-lift aviation.  

Developed by state-owned Yitong UAV, the TP1000 boasts 100% domestically developed core technologies. Engineered to excel in both military and civilian roles, it combines a 3.3-ton maximum take-off weight, a 1,000km full-load range, and rapid modular assembly. Its rear cargo door and standardized pallet compatibility streamline large-scale airdrops, positioning it as a game-changer for logistics, emergency response, and beyond.  

Already generating buzz, the TP1000 has secured 30 pre-orders from industry leaders like ZTO Express and Asian Express Aviation. The program now advances to airworthiness certification, with test flights for commercial deployment set to begin by late 2025.  

This achievement cements China’s growing leadership in unmanned aviation, blending cutting-edge engineering with real-world utility to reshape global cargo transport.