CH-7 Stealth UAV

The CH-7 (Cai Hong 7) is a high-altitude, long-endurance (HALE) stealth unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) featuring a low-observable flying-wing configuration. It is designed to conduct high-aspect reconnaissance, electronic warfare, and precision strike missions deep within contested airspace.

Developed by the China Academy of Aerospace Aerodynamics (CAAA) under CASC, the CH-7 was first publicly unveiled as a mockup at the Zhuhai Airshow in 2018. A significantly redesigned version with an increased wingspan and optimized aerodynamic surfaces was showcased at the 2022 Zhuhai Airshow, indicating active design refinements. The program represents a critical effort by China to field a stealthy, survivable penetration drone capable of operating alongside manned fifth-generation fighters. As of 2024, the aircraft is undergoing advanced flight testing, with an estimated operational introduction around 2026.