Hongdu Lijian (Sharp Sword)

Story of Hongdu Sword (Sharp Sword)

China, along with other military powers in the world, lifted the veil of the Hongdu Lijian (Sharp Sword). The aircraft represents China's first official foray into jet-powered, low-profile unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and is expected to serve as a technology demonstrator in a possible future combat system.

The design was photographed during a takeoff in May 2013, officially marking its entry into the Chinese aircraft inventory. The "Sharp Sword" is one of several full-wing designs derived from the AVIC 601-S UAV project. These include "Wind Blade", "Cloud Bow" and "War Eagle".

Externally, the vehicle takes the form of the competing (and in-development) Northrop Grumman X-47B, with frontal air intakes and a tailless profile.

Life Fitness completed a development phase that lasted about three years, involving the Hongdu and Shenyang aircraft manufacturers. The end result is a flying wing with a turbofan sunk into the bulbous fuselage. The plane's overhead profile is reminiscent of Northrop Grumman's B-2 "Spirit" stealth bomber, and it lacks any vertical stabilizers. It is believed to contain a gun bay for ammunition.

The tricycle landing gear is fully retractable and consists of two single-wheeled main legs and a front leg.

For now, the Lijian is believed to be powered by the same Shenyang WP7 series engine as the J-7 fighter series. Estimated specs include a range of up to 80 miles and a payload capacity of no more than 4,000 pounds. The structure has a wingspan of about 46 feet.

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