The CH-3 is a battle-tested, medium-range, multi-role unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) system designed for tactical reconnaissance, real-time surveillance, and precision strike missions. Developed by China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), the CH-3 has been operationally deployed in multiple conflict zones, demonstrating exceptional reliability, combat effectiveness, and cost-efficiency in real-world environments.
With a maximum endurance of 12 hours, a range of 1,000 km, and the ability to carry up to 200 kg of precision-guided munitions, the CH-3 delivers integrated ISR and strike capability at the brigade and division level. Its simple logistics footprint, short-field takeoff and landing capability, and robust digital datalink make it ideal for rapid deployment in austere environments, including desert, mountain, and maritime regions.
The CH-3 features a conventional high-wing, pusher-propeller configuration with a V-tail, optimized for stability and endurance. It is powered by a heavy-fuel (diesel/Jet A-1) piston engine, reducing logistical burden and enhancing safety compared to gasoline-powered systems.
Equipped with advanced electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensors and compatible with a range of indigenous and export-grade guided weapons, the CH-3 provides commanders with a responsive, persistent, and lethal asset for asymmetric warfare, counter-terrorism, and border security operations.
Key Features
- Combat-Proven Platform: Deployed in multiple international conflicts with confirmed strike success rates.
- Long Endurance: Up to 12 hours of continuous flight for persistent battlefield coverage.
- Extended Operational Range: 1,000 km mission radius with secure LOS datalink; BLOS SATCOM optional.
- Precision Strike Capability: Armed configuration supports:
- AR-1 / AR-2 air-to-surface missiles
- FT series precision-guided bombs
- LS-6 GPS/INS-guided glide bombs
- Lightweight guided rockets
- Advanced ISR Payload:
- Stabilized EO/IR turret with HD daylight camera, thermal imager (640×512), and laser rangefinder/designator
- Optional SAR/GMTI radar for all-weather ground surveillance
- Secure Digital Datalink: AES-256 encrypted COFDM transmission, frequency-agile, anti-jamming, range up to 200 km LOS.
- BLOS Capability: Ku-band SATCOM option for beyond-line-of-sight operations.
- All-Weather Operation: Certified for flight in rain, turbulence, and moderate crosswinds.
- Autonomous Flight: Full auto takeoff, waypoint navigation, target tracking, weapon release, and return-to-base.
- Short-Field Operations: Operates from unpaved runways ≥ 300 meters.
- Heavy-Fuel Engine: Uses diesel or Jet A-1 fuel — safer, more efficient, and logistically compatible with military fuel supplies.
- Modular Design: Quick payload swap between ISR-only and armed configurations.
- Ground Control Station (GCS): Ruggedized containerized or vehicle-mounted station with dual operator consoles, 3D terrain display, and weapons management interface.
- Low Operating Cost: Significantly lower acquisition and lifecycle cost compared to Western equivalents.
Technical Specifications
Parameter |
Specification |
|---|---|
| System Designation | CH-3 / CH-3A UAV System |
| UAV Type | Fixed-wing, high-wing, pusher propeller, V-tail |
| Wingspan | 8.0 m |
| Length | 6.4 m |
| Height | 2.4 m |
| MTOW (Max Takeoff Weight) | 640 kg |
| Empty Weight | 440 kg |
| Payload Capacity | Up to 200 kg (internal + external) |
| Propulsion | Heavy-fuel (diesel/Jet A-1) piston engine, ~100 hp |
| Cruise Speed | 160–180 km/h |
| Max Speed | 250 km/h |
| Stall Speed | 95 km/h |
| Service Ceiling | 7,500 m (24,600 ft) |
| Operating Altitude (AGL) | 100 – 7,000 m |
| Wind Resistance | Up to 70 km/h (Beaufort 5) |
| Flight Endurance | 8–12 hours (payload-dependent) |
| Operational Radius | Up to 1,000 km |
| Control Range (LOS) | Up to 200 km |
| BLOS Option | Ku-band SATCOM (optional) |
| Communication Link | Digital COFDM, frequency-agile, encrypted |
| Encryption | AES-256 |
| Navigation System | GPS/BeiDou + GLONASS + high-grade INS |
| Autonomous Functions | Auto takeoff, waypoint nav, orbit, weapon release, RTL, auto-land |
| Hardpoints | 2 underwing pylons |
| Weapon Compatibility | AR-1, AR-2, FT-5, FT-7, LS-6, YJ-9E, APKWS-type |
| Primary Payloads | EO/IR turret (laser designator), optional SAR |
| Ground Control Station (GCS) | Containerized or vehicle-mounted; dual operator |
| Crew | 2 (Pilot + Mission Commander) |
| Power Supply | Onboard 28V DC or external 220V AC |
| Operating Temperature | -30°C to +55°C |
| Runway Requirement | 300–500 m (unpaved/dirt) |
| Transportability | Disassembled transport in 1x 20ft container or light truck |
Operational Roles
- Tactical Reconnaissance: Real-time video feed for brigade-level command.
- Precision Strike: Engagement of light armor, technicals, and static targets.
- Border & Coastal Surveillance: Patrol of remote land and maritime borders.
- Counter-Terrorism: Persistent monitoring and targeted strikes against insurgent cells.
- Battlefield Damage Assessment (BDA): Post-strike imaging and analysis.
- Communications Relay: UHF/VHF signal extension for forward units.
- Disaster Monitoring: Rapid assessment of earthquake, flood, or fire zones.
Support & Export Configuration
The CH-3 is offered with comprehensive support:
- Full training program (flight, weapons, maintenance, intelligence)
- Spare parts, engine modules, and weapon integration kits
- Mission planning software with KML import and 3D simulation
- Remote diagnostics and technical support
- Civilian variant available for pipeline inspection, wildlife monitoring, and aerial surveying
Available Configurations:
- ISR-Only
- Armed Strike
- Export-Compliant Weapon Suite (meets international arms regulations)
Proven in Nigeria, Myanmar, Iraq, and Pakistan, the CH- 3 is a trusted, cost-effective solution for nations seeking a combat-ready, multi-role UAV system with minimal infrastructure requirements.
