Chinese Hydrogen Drone Sets New Record

­A Chinese hydrogen-powered drone recently underwent a 30-hour non-stop flight, a new record for aircraft of its type. And while it won’t be taking part in asymmetrical warfare anytime soon, it’s a huge step forward for renewable energy and several first-responder and government applications.

According to the China Hydrogen Bulletin, the 50 kg- hydrogen drone was developed by AVIC Chengdu Aircraft Industrial (Group) Co Ltd and Tsinghua University, and the fuel cell system designed by the University team increased the power density to 600W/kg and the system efficiency to 55% (owing to the lightweight stack design and low platinum-loaded catalyst technology).

It even demonstrated a take-off via a non-standard runway, with it launching from the roof of an unmanned car.

Moreover, its electro-optical payload allowed for ground patrol and surveillance, and with a 5G onboard module and public network resources, it can transmit real-time telemetry data and mission payload images.

AVIC Chengdu Aircraft Industrial claimed that the demonstration “enriches the low-altitude economic application scenarios of hydrogen-powered UAVs and plays an active role in the layout of new low-altitude economic and green aviation businesses.”

Its endurance would make it a great fit for natural disaster rescue missions, environmental monitoring, border patrol, and anything else that requires a long-term aerial presence.