UAV & Drones
China Opens Advanced Wind Tunnel for Low Altitude Aircraft Testing
China’s Guangzhou wind tunnel enhances drone and eVTOL testing with urban wind simulations, reducing time and costs for aerospace innovation.
In a strategic move to bolster its rapidly growing low-altitude aviation sector, China has unveiled a new wind tunnel facility in Guangzhou, specifically designed for testing drones, electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, and other low-altitude vehicles. The facility, developed by the Guangdong Aerospace Research Academy (GARA), marks a significant leap forward in China’s efforts to reduce dependence on legacy testing infrastructure and enhance its competitiveness in the global aerospace market.
Wind tunnels are critical for aerospace development, enabling engineers to simulate flight conditions in a controlled environment. Until now, many Chinese drone and eVTOL developers relied on the Harbin wind tunnel, a facility dating back to the 1950s. With increasing demand and long wait times, the need for a modern, dedicated low-altitude testing platform became evident. The new Guangzhou facility aims to address these challenges, offering faster, more cost-effective testing while supporting China’s broader ambitions in the low-altitude economy.
As the global market for drones and eVTOLs continues to expand, China’s investment in this facility reflects a commitment to technological self-reliance and innovation. The implications of this development extend beyond national borders, potentially reshaping competitive dynamics in the aerospace industry worldwide.
The Guangzhou wind tunnel features a 4.5-meter-diameter test section and integrates a “windshaper” system capable of simulating complex airflow conditions. These include sustained winds, gusts, and tangential winds, with speeds reaching up to 17.1 meters per second, equivalent to a Level 7 wind environment. This allows engineers to replicate real-world urban wind conditions, which are essential for validating the safety and performance of low-altitude aircraft in cityscapes.
Unlike traditional wind tunnels that focus on high-altitude or supersonic flight, this facility is optimized for the nuances of low-altitude operations. For example, it can simulate turbulence caused by buildings or coastal gusts, which are critical factors for urban air mobility vehicles like air taxis. This level of specificity in testing is a game-changer for designers and manufacturers aiming to meet stringent safety and performance standards.
Sun Liangbao, the technical lead at GARA, emphasized the importance of this capability: “Fixing aircraft in place while generating targeted airflow lets us replicate skyscraper turbulence or coastal gusts, critical for urban air mobility safety.”
“Fixing aircraft in place while generating targeted airflow lets us replicate skyscraper turbulence or coastal gusts, critical for urban air mobility safety.” — Sun Liangbao, GARA Wind Tunnel Tech Lead
One of the standout features of the Guangzhou wind tunnel is its ability to significantly reduce testing timelines. According to Shang Zuming, director of the wind tunnel testing platform, companies previously faced wait times exceeding 12 months at the Harbin facility. The new tunnel cuts this down to just 3–4 months, enabling faster iteration and commercialization of new aircraft designs.
In addition to time savings, the facility also offers substantial cost benefits. Testing expenses have been reduced by approximately 50%, with coordination-to-completion costs now averaging between $120,000 and $150,000 per project. This makes advanced aerodynamic testing more accessible to smaller manufacturers and startups, fostering greater innovation across the industry. These improvements are expected to accelerate the development of next-generation drones and eVTOLs, particularly for applications in logistics, surveillance, and passenger transport. Over 10 companies, including major players like Xpeng Aeroht and Weikai Testing, have already scheduled tests at the facility for 2025–2026.
The Guangzhou wind tunnel is not a standalone facility; it is part of a broader ecosystem that includes the “All-Space Unmanned Systems Test Field.” This integration allows for the combination of physical testing with digital twin simulations, enabling engineers to model, test, and refine aircraft designs more efficiently.
This hybrid approach supports rapid prototyping and reduces the need for costly physical iterations. For example, the UniVTOL V2200 composite-wing drone was among the first aircraft tested at the facility, undergoing trials that validated its wind resistance under simulated Level 7 storm conditions.
Such capabilities are particularly valuable in the context of urban air mobility, where safety, reliability, and public trust are paramount. By enabling comprehensive testing under realistic conditions, the facility helps manufacturers meet regulatory requirements and consumer expectations more effectively.
The new wind tunnel is a cornerstone of Guangdong Province’s strategy to dominate China’s emerging low-altitude economy. The province aims to capture a significant portion of the national target of 1.5 trillion yuan (approximately $206 billion) by 2027. This includes expanding capabilities in drone logistics, eVTOL passenger transport, and other unmanned aerial systems.
By providing local companies with state-of-the-art testing infrastructure, the facility enhances regional competitiveness and supports the development of a robust aerospace supply chain. This includes advancements in materials science, avionics, and propulsion systems, all of which are critical for the next generation of low-altitude aircraft.
Moreover, the facility’s presence in Guangzhou, already a hub for drone development, reinforces the city’s position as a national leader in aerospace innovation. It also aligns with broader government initiatives to promote high-tech industries and reduce reliance on foreign technologies.
The launch of the Guangzhou wind tunnel may prompt other countries to reassess their own testing capabilities. Analysts from ePlane AI suggest that the facility could trigger upgrades in the U.S. and Europe, particularly in areas like urban wind simulation and low-altitude flight testing, where existing infrastructure may lag behind. This development also has implications for global standards and regulatory frameworks. As China sets new benchmarks for low-altitude aircraft testing, international bodies may need to adapt to ensure interoperability and safety across different markets. This could influence everything from airworthiness certification to pilot training and operational protocols.
Finally, the facility complements China’s broader advancements in aerospace, including the JF-22 hypersonic wind tunnel capable of simulating speeds up to Mach 30. Together, these investments underscore China’s dual-use strategy, blending civilian and military applications to enhance national capabilities.
Despite its many advantages, the Guangzhou wind tunnel also faces challenges. For instance, while it significantly reduces testing time and costs, it cannot fully replace flight testing, which remains crucial for validating real-world performance. Additionally, the facility’s success depends on continued investment in complementary technologies such as AI-driven simulation and advanced manufacturing.
There are also concerns about transparency and data sharing. As China takes a leading role in setting standards for low-altitude aviation, international stakeholders may call for greater openness to ensure that new technologies meet global safety and environmental criteria.
Nevertheless, the facility represents a major step forward in the evolution of low-altitude aviation and positions China as a key player in this rapidly growing field.
The inauguration of the Guangzhou wind tunnel marks a transformative moment for China’s low-altitude aviation sector. With its advanced capabilities, reduced testing times, and integration with digital infrastructure, the facility is poised to accelerate the development of drones and eVTOLs while supporting the country’s broader economic and strategic goals.
As the global aerospace industry continues to evolve, developments like this will shape the future of urban mobility, logistics, and national defense. Whether other nations respond with similar investments remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the race for dominance in low-altitude aviation has entered a new phase.
What is the purpose of the Guangzhou wind tunnel? How does it differ from traditional wind tunnels? Who operates the facility? Bastille Post, ePlane AI, NewsGD, TS2, Motorwatt, Grandview Research, Global Times, Laernoc, Dayoo, AAM Shanghai, Sina Finance
China’s New Wind Tunnel for Low-Altitude Aircraft: Accelerating Drones and eVTOL Development
Technical Capabilities and Innovations
Advanced Testing Environment
Efficiency Gains and Cost Reduction
Integration with Digital and Physical Infrastructure
Economic and Strategic Implications
Boosting the Low-Altitude Economy
Global Industry Impact
Challenges and Considerations
Conclusion
FAQ
It is designed to test low-altitude aircraft such as drones and eVTOLs under realistic urban wind conditions, improving safety and accelerating development cycles.
Unlike older facilities, it can simulate complex wind patterns like gusts and tangential flows, which are critical for urban air mobility applications.
The wind tunnel is managed by the Guangdong Aerospace Research Academy (GARA) and is integrated into Guangzhou’s broader unmanned systems testing ecosystem.
Sources
Photo Credit: China eVTOL News
UAV & Drones
Barq Group and Elroy Air Launch $200M VTOL Cargo Aircraft JV in Abu Dhabi
Barq Group and Elroy Air form a $200M joint venture to manufacture Chaparral hybrid-electric VTOL cargo aircraft in Abu Dhabi, targeting MENA middle-mile logistics.
This article is based on an official press release from Elroy Air and Barq Group.
Barq Group, a leader in smart mobility based in the United Arab Emirates, and Elroy Air, a U.S. developer of autonomous aerospace technology, have signed an initial agreement to establish a joint venture (JV) valued at $200 million. The partnership focuses on establishing a Manufacturing facility in Abu Dhabi to produce the Chaparral, a hybrid-electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) cargo aircraft.
According to the announcement, the joint venture aims to address the critical “middle-mile” logistics gap across the Middle East and North Africa (Middle-East) region. By localizing manufacturing, the companies intend to support the UAE’s strategic push for autonomous transport and industrial self-reliance.
The agreement outlines a phased approach to introducing the Chaparral aircraft to the region. Under the terms of the deal, the joint venture will oversee flight operations, manufacturing, and aftermarket services, including maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO).
The companies have set a clear timeline for deployment:
Ahmed AlMazrui, Co-founder and CEO of Barq Group, emphasized the scale of the commitment in a statement regarding the deal:
“This $200 million investment is more than a manufacturing agreement; it is a commitment to building a self-sustaining aerospace ecosystem in the UAE. The massive demand we are seeing from logistics providers across MENA makes it clear that local production is the only way to scale effectively.”
The project aligns with Abu Dhabi’s Smart and Autonomous Vehicle Industry (SAVI) cluster and the national “Make it in the Emirates” strategy, which prioritizes the development of local industrial capabilities.
The Chaparral is designed specifically for middle-mile logistics, the transport of goods between distribution centers or to remote locations, bypassing the need for traditional airports or ground infrastructure. Elroy Air describes the aircraft as a “lift + cruise” hybrid-electric VTOL system.
According to technical data released by Elroy Air, the Chaparral features: A critical feature for the MENA region is the aircraft’s independence from electric charging infrastructure. Because the turbine generator charges the batteries during flight, the Chaparral does not require ground-based charging stations, enabling operations in remote deserts, offshore platforms, or mountainous terrain.
Dr. Andrew Clare, CEO of Elroy Air, highlighted the regional suitability of the aircraft:
“Demand for the Chaparral in the MENA region has been immense… Abu Dhabi is the ideal strategic hub for our first international manufacturing footprint.”
The “middle mile” is historically the most inefficient segment of the supply chain in the MENA region due to challenging geography and sparse infrastructure. Traditional cargo aircraft require runways that do not exist at many remote industrial sites, while ground transport is often slowed by indirect routes through deserts or archipelagos.
By deploying a VTOL system that requires zero airport infrastructure, this joint venture directly targets these inefficiencies. Furthermore, the hybrid powertrain distinguishes the Chaparral from purely electric competitors, which may struggle in regions lacking robust electrical grids at every delivery point. This move also positions Barq Group and Elroy Air to compete with other emerging players in the region, such as Dronamics, which has also secured agreements in the UAE.
Barq Group is the Abu Dhabi-based smart mobility arm of the larger conglomerate, distinct from other entities sharing the name in the region. Since launching its mobility division in April 2023, Barq has focused on eco-friendly transport solutions, previously signing agreements for ground-based electric delivery vehicles. This JV marks a significant expansion into aerial logistics.
Elroy Air, headquartered in South San Francisco, was founded in 2016. The company reports a commercial order backlog exceeding $3 billion, representing over 1,000 aircraft, with interest from major global customers including FedEx and Bristow Group.
What is the value of the joint venture? When will the aircraft begin flying in the UAE? Does the Chaparral require charging stations?
Barq Group and Elroy Air Announce $200 Million Joint Venture to Manufacture Autonomous Cargo-Aircraft in Abu Dhabi
Establishing a Regional Aerospace Hub
The Chaparral: Specifications and Capabilities
Key Technical Specifications
AirPro News Analysis
Company Backgrounds and Market Position
Frequently Asked Questions
The agreement represents a $200 million investment to build a manufacturing facility and establish operations in Abu Dhabi.
Flight operations using U.S.-built aircraft are scheduled to begin in 2027, with locally manufactured aircraft entering service in 2028.
No. The aircraft uses a hybrid-electric powertrain where a turbine generator charges the batteries in-flight, eliminating the need for ground charging infrastructure.Sources
Photo Credit: Elroy Air
UAV & Drones
China’s Tianma-1000 Heavy-Lift Cargo Drone Completes Maiden Flight
China’s Tianma-1000 heavy-lift cargo drone completed its maiden flight, featuring 1,000 kg payload and STOL capability for remote logistics.
On Sunday, January 11, 2026, China successfully conducted the maiden flight of the “Tianma-1000” unmanned transport aircraft. According to reporting by CGTN, the aircraft was developed by Xi’an ASN Technology Group Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of the state-owned defense contractor China North Industries Group Corporation (Norinco). The flight test, conducted at an airport in Shaanxi Province, marks a significant step in the country’s efforts to expand its “low-altitude economy.”
The Tianma-1000 is designed to serve as a multi-role platform, integrating logistics transport, emergency rescue capabilities, and supply drop functions. State media reports indicate that the successful flight verified the aircraft’s aerodynamic design and control systems, clearing the way for further development in complex terrain operations.
Data regarding the Tianma-1000 highlights its positioning as a heavy-lift solution intended to bridge the gap between small delivery drones and traditional manned cargo planes. According to technical specifications released in conjunction with the flight, the aircraft features a payload capacity of 1,000 kilograms (1 metric ton) and a maximum range of 1,800 kilometers.
A defining feature of the Tianma-1000 is its Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) capability. Unlike systems requiring standard airport infrastructure, this aircraft is engineered to operate from unpaved surfaces such as grass or compacted dirt. Technical reports state that the aircraft requires a runway length of less than 200 meters to take off or land. This capability is specifically aimed at facilitating operations in remote areas, including high-altitude plateaus and mountainous regions where long concrete runways are unavailable.
To support rapid logistics, the aircraft incorporates an intelligent loading system. Developer data suggests that the AI-assisted mechanism allows for the loading or unloading of its full 1-ton payload in approximately five minutes. Furthermore, the fuselage utilizes a modular “quick-swap” design, enabling operators to switch between standard logistics transport and airdrop modes depending on mission requirements.
The development of the Tianma-1000 underscores the growing intersection between military and civilian aerospace technology in China. The developer, Xi’an ASN Technology Group, is recognized as a dominant player in the domestic UAV market and is the largest drone production base in the country. Its parent company, Norinco, is a major state-owned defense contractor traditionally known for land systems.
According to industry analysis referenced in reports surrounding the Launch, the Tianma-1000 is part of a broader national push to develop a “low-altitude economy”, a sector that Beijing estimates could be valued at 2 trillion yuan by 2030. The aircraft joins a competitive field of domestic heavy-lift drones, including the TP1000 and AT200, all vying for market share in the “middle-mile” logistics sector.
The Case for STOL over VTOL While many Western competitors in the autonomous cargo sector, such as Elroy Air or Sabrewing, have prioritized Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) capabilities to eliminate runway requirements entirely, the Tianma-1000 represents a different engineering philosophy. By opting for a Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) configuration, Chinese engineers appear to be prioritizing payload efficiency and range over vertical versatility.
VTOL systems require heavy lifting rotors and complex propulsion systems that often consume significant fuel and reduce overall cargo capacity. In contrast, the Tianma-1000’s fixed-wing design with STOL capabilities allows it to carry a substantial 1-ton payload over 1,800 kilometers while maintaining a simpler mechanical profile. For operations in China’s western regions, where flat strips of land (200 meters) are generally available even in remote areas, this trade-off offers a pragmatic, cost-effective solution for middle-mile logistics.
The Tianma-1000 enters a global market populated by several emerging heavy-lift autonomous aircraft. Its specifications place it in direct competition with international platforms, though with distinct operational profiles.
The Tianma-1000’s service ceiling of 8,000 meters also distinguishes it, suggesting a specific design focus on high-altitude operations suitable for the Tibetan Plateau and other mountainous frontiers.
China’s Tianma-1000 Heavy-Lift Cargo Drones Completes Maiden-Flight
Technical Specifications and Capabilities
Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) Performance
Operational Efficiency
Strategic Context and Developer Background
AirPro News Analysis
Global Comparison
Sources
Photo Credit: CGTN
UAV & Drones
Dynamic Aerospace Systems Increases U.S. Drone Production After FCC Ban
Dynamic Aerospace Systems expands production and partnerships following FCC’s NDAA Section 1709 ban on foreign drone authorizations in the U.S. market.
This article is based on an official press release from Dynamic Aerospace Systems.
Dynamic Aerospace Systems (DAS), formerly known as BrooQLy, Inc., announced on December 29, 2025, that it is accelerating its strategic expansion plans to meet a surge in demand for American-made Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). This announcement follows a significant regulatory shift in the United States, specifically the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) recent implementation of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) Section 1709.
According to the company’s press release, the FCC’s Public Notice (DA 25-1086), issued on December 22, 2025, effectively prohibits new equipment authorizations for drones and critical components produced in “covered” foreign countries. DAS states that this regulatory action creates an immediate market vacuum, necessitating a rapid shift toward domestic alternatives for both government and commercial sectors.
In a statement regarding the new regulations, DAS leadership emphasized their readiness to fill the gap left by restricted foreign manufacturers.
“We are fully prepared to meet the heightened global demand for secure, American-built drone solutions,” the company stated in its release.
The catalyst for DAS’s recent announcement is the enforcement of Section 1709 of the FY25 National Defense Authorization Act. As outlined in the company’s statement and supporting regulatory documents, this legislation adds specific foreign-produced UAVs and their critical components to the FCC’s “Covered List.”
This designation prevents the FCC from issuing new authorizations for these devices, effectively blocking new models from major foreign competitors, most notably those based in China, from entering the U.S. market. DAS publicly endorsed this move, citing national security concerns such as data exfiltration and supply chain vulnerabilities associated with foreign-made technology.
DAS highlighted its commitment to “supply chain sovereignty,” a concept that ensures all critical components are sourced domestically or from allied nations. The company asserts that its manufacturing processes in Ann Arbor, Michigan, are designed to eliminate the risks associated with foreign reliance, positioning their products as compliant, “Blue UAS” alternatives suitable for sensitive government operations.
To address the requirements of the new regulatory landscape, DAS is promoting its “Fortis Class” of aircraft. According to company disclosures, this portfolio is designed for dual-use applications, serving both military defense needs and commercial logistics. The Fortis Class includes three primary platforms:
The company confirmed in its release that it is expanding manufacturing capacity at its Ann Arbor facility to handle the expected volume increase resulting from the foreign technology ban.
Beyond manufacturing, DAS detailed several strategic moves intended to secure its foothold in the global market. The press release and recent company filings point to partnerships aimed at integrating DAS hardware into established logistics networks.
Key developments include:
The timing of Dynamic Aerospace Systems’ announcement is critical. By issuing this release just one week after the FCC’s December 22 notice, DAS is aggressively positioning itself to capture investor and customer attention during a period of industry disruption. The “import substitution” narrative is central to their strategy; with Chinese incumbents effectively barred from introducing new models, the U.S. market is undergoing a forced pivot toward domestic suppliers.
However, the challenge for DAS, and the broader U.S. drone industrial base, will be scaling production to match the volume and price points previously offered by foreign competitors. While the “Fortis Class” offers compliant alternatives, the company’s ability to execute on its manufacturing expansion in Ann Arbor will be the true test of its “readiness” claim.
What is the significance of the FCC’s December 22 Public Notice? What is Dynamic Aerospace Systems? What drones does DAS manufacture?
Dynamic Aerospace Systems Ramps Up Production Following FCC Ban on Foreign Drones
Regulatory Context: The Impact of NDAA Section 1709
Supply Chain Sovereignty
The “Fortis Class” and Operational Capabilities
Strategic Partnerships and Market Expansion
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
The notice implements Section 1709 of the FY25 NDAA, which bans the FCC from authorizing new drones or critical components from specific foreign countries, effectively blocking new Chinese drone models from the U.S. market.
Dynamic Aerospace Systems (DAS) is a U.S.-based drone manufacturer headquartered in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The company was formerly known as BrooQLy, Inc. (OTCQB: BRQL).
DAS manufactures the “Fortis Class” of UAVs, which includes the Overwatch (hybrid VTOL), Sentinel (urban surveillance), and Breacher (tactical) models.
Sources
Photo Credit: Dynamic Aerospace Systems
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