BEIJING - China unveiled the Wing Loong-3 long-range unmanned air vehicle (UAV) at the 14th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition. Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group developed the WL-3.
The Wing Loong series resembles the Reaper UAV developed by the United States. The Wing Loong UAVs are intended for reconnaissance and surveillance missions, but cam carry air-to-surface missiles.
The Wing Loong-3 is more capable than its predecessors and offers a range of 10,000 kilometers. The WL-3 is also larger than previous versions. This UAV has a length of 12.2 meters and a wingspan of 24 meters. Besides strike weapons, the WL-3 can be equipped with fourth-generation air-to-air missiles.
China has already exported earlier versions in the Wing Loong series to customers in Africa and the Middle East.