WZ-2000

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The WZ-2000, also known as the WuZhen-2000 and previously the WZ-9 is a multi-purpose stealth UAV developed by Guizhou Aviation Industry Group (GAIC) in the People's Republic of China.

Development on the WZ-2000 began in 1999. A mock up of the WZ-2000 was publicly displayed at the 2000 Zhuhai Airshow, with a more accurate model on display at the 2002 event. First flight was on December 26, 2003, and there is sketchy news that an improved version, possibly designated the WZ-2000B, was due to fly at the end of 2005.

The UAV is powered by a single WS-11 turbofan engine which sits on top of the empennage between the two V-shaped tail fins. The fins are canted at approximately 40°. The sensor package includes thermal imaging camera, synthetic aperture radar, with images transmitted via a satellite communications antenna in the nose bulge.

[edit] Specifications

  • Length 7.5m
  • Wingspan 9.8m
  • Max TO weight 1.7t
  • Mission payload 80kg
  • Max level speed 800km/h
  • Ceiling 18,000m
  • Combat radius 800km
  • Loitering time 3hr.

[edit] References