The world's first hybrid unmanned cargo aircraft, the Rainbow YH-1000S, completed its maiden flight in Liangping, Chongqing on Sunday.

The Rainbow YH-1000S unmanned cargo aircraft. (Photon provided by the China Academy of Aerospace Aerodynamics)

Developed by the China Academy of Aerospace Aerodynamics (CAAA), the Rainbow YH-1000S is a rapidly upgraded model designed to meet global market demand, following the successful first flight of the Rainbow YH-1000 in May 2025.

Equipped with a high-power hybrid propulsion system co-developed with leading new energy vehicle companies, the aircraft demonstrated shorter takeoff and landing distances, as well as improved payload capacity and range, successfully validating its in-flight performance.

The YH-1000S marks an essential step in cross-sector integration between China's unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and automotive industries. Through shared supply chains and modular production, development and manufacturing costs have been significantly reduced, highlighting coordinated advances in technology and industry aimed at the emerging low-altitude unmanned logistics sector.

Designed in accordance with airworthiness standards, the large unmanned cargo aircraft is expected to serve in international cargo logistics, emergency rescue and disaster relief, artificial weather modification, ocean monitoring, and maritime supervision.

(Compiled by intern Li Linmo)