Chongqing - The world's first hybrid-powered unmanned cargo aircraft has completed its maiden flight in southwest China, according to an official Chinese aerospace developer.

The Caihong YH-1000S unmanned transport aircraft. (Photo/11th Academy of the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation)

On February 3, the Eleventh Academy of the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC) said the Caihong YH-1000S unmanned transport aircraft successfully carried out its first flight in Liangping, a district of Chongqing Municipality. CASC is China's state-owned space and defense contractor.

The YH-1000S is an upgraded model developed after the Caihong YH-1000 unmanned transport aircraft completed its maiden flight in May 2025. According to the developer, the new aircraft was rapidly iterated to meet the requirements of international customers.

During the first flight, the YH-1000S was equipped with a high-power hybrid propulsion system jointly developed with a Chinese new energy vehicle company. The hybrid system combines conventional fuel and electric power, a configuration aimed at improving efficiency. CASC said the system shortened takeoff and landing distances while increasing payload capacity and flight range. The test flight completed a full verification of the aircraft's in-air performance.

The YH-1000S is a large unmanned transport aircraft designed in line with airworthiness standards, which refer to regulatory requirements ensuring aircraft safety for civilian operations. CASC said the aircraft is intended for use in international logistics delivery, emergency rescue and disaster relief, weather modification operations, marine monitoring, and maritime law enforcement.

Liangping, located in northeastern Chongqing, has developed dedicated testing infrastructure for unmanned aircraft and has become a frequent site for first flights of large drones developed in China.