The CH-4 is a world-class medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) system engineered for strategic and tactical reconnaissance, persistent surveillance, electronic warfare, and precision strike missions. Developed by China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), the CH-4 has been operationally proven in complex combat environments across Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, delivering unmatched reliability, endurance, and lethality at a competitive cost.
With a maximum endurance of 35 hours, a mission radius exceeding 1,500 km, and a payload capacity of up to 345 kg, the CH-4 provides national and theater-level commanders with an affordable, high-performance alternative to Western MALE platforms. Its high-wing, twin-tailboom design and heavy-fuel propulsion system ensure exceptional stability, fuel efficiency, and operational flexibility in harsh environments — from deserts and mountains to maritime zones.
The CH-4 supports both ISR-only and armed configurations, capable of carrying a wide array of precision-guided munitions for engaging light armor, vehicles, static installations, and personnel. Integrated with advanced electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensors, synthetic aperture radar (SAR), signals intelligence (SIGINT) suites, and secure digital datalinks, the CH-4 delivers real-time, all-weather intelligence and responsive firepower over vast operational areas.
Fully autonomous from takeoff to landing, the CH-4 operates seamlessly from semi-prepared runways and integrates into modern C4ISR networks, making it ideal for counter-terrorism, border security, maritime patrol, and strategic reconnaissance missions.
Key Features
- Ultra-Long Endurance: Up to 35 hours of continuous flight — among the longest in its class.
- Extended Range & Radius: Operational radius of 1,500–2,000 km with LOS datalink; BLOS SATCOM extends global reach.
- High Payload Capacity: 345 kg total payload — supports multiple weapons and sensors simultaneously.
- Precision Strike Capability:
- AR-1 / AR-2 air-to-surface missiles
- FT series GPS/INS-guided bombs (FT-3, FT-5, FT-7)
- LS-6 glide bombs
- YJ-9E anti-radiation missile
- APKWS-type guided rockets
- Advanced Multi-Sensor Suite:
- HD EO/IR turret with laser rangefinder/designator
- SAR/GMTI radar for all-weather ground moving target detection
- SIGINT/COMINT system for signal interception and geolocation
- Maritime surveillance radar (optional)
- Secure Digital Datalink: AES-256 encrypted COFDM, frequency-agile, anti-jamming, range up to 250 km LOS.
- BLOS Capability: Ku/Ka-band SATCOM option for beyond-line-of-sight operations (global coverage).
- Heavy-Fuel Engine: Turbocharged diesel engine (diesel/Jet A-1 compatible) — safer, more efficient, and logistically robust.
- Autonomous Operation: Full auto takeoff, waypoint navigation, orbit, weapon release, return-to-base, and autoland.
- Short-Field Performance: Operates from unpaved runways ≥ 400 meters.
- Modular Open Architecture: Easy integration of third-party payloads and mission systems.
- Redundant Avionics: Dual INS, dual flight computers, and backup control channels enhance reliability.
- Ground Control Station (GCS): Containerized or vehicle-mounted command center with dual operator stations, 3D situational display, and integrated weapons management.
- Low Life-Cycle Cost: Significantly lower acquisition and operating cost than comparable Western platforms.
Technical Specifications
Parameter |
Specification |
|---|---|
| System Designation | CH-4 UAV System |
| UAV Type | Fixed-wing, high-wing, twin tailboom, pusher prop |
| Wingspan | 18.0 m |
| Length | 9.0 m |
| Height | 3.4 m |
| MTOW (Max Takeoff Weight) | 1,320 kg |
| Empty Weight | 975 kg |
| Payload Capacity | Up to 345 kg (internal + external) |
| Propulsion | Heavy-fuel turbocharged diesel engine (~120 hp) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel / Jet A-1 |
| Cruise Speed | 180–200 km/h |
| Max Speed | 235 km/h |
| Stall Speed | 90 km/h |
| Service Ceiling | 9,000 m (29,500 ft) |
| Operating Altitude (AGL) | 100 – 8,500 m |
| Wind Resistance | Up to 75 km/h (Beaufort 5) |
| Flight Endurance | 16–35 hours (payload-dependent) |
| Operational Radius | 1,500 – 2,000 km |
| Control Range (LOS) | Up to 250 km |
| BLOS Option | Ku/Ka-band SATCOM (global coverage) |
| Communication Link | Digital COFDM (LOS) + SATCOM (BLOS) |
| Encryption | AES-256 |
| Navigation System | GPS/BeiDou + GLONASS + Galileo + FOG-INS |
| Autonomous Functions | Auto takeoff, nav, orbit, weapon release, RTL, autoland |
| Hardpoints | 6 (4 underwing, 2 wingtip) |
| Weapon Compatibility | AR-1, AR-2, FT-3/5/7, LS-6, YJ-9E, APKWS-type |
| Primary Payloads | EO/IR, SAR/GMTI, SIGINT, MSR |
| Ground Control Station (GCS) | Containerized or mobile command post; dual operator |
| Crew | 2 (Pilot + Mission Commander) |
| Power Supply | Onboard 28V DC / External 220V AC |
| Operating Temperature | -30°C to +55°C |
| Runway Requirement | 400–600 m (unpaved/dirt) |
| Transportability | Disassembled in 2x 20ft containers or heavy truck |
Operational Roles
- Strategic ISR: Persistent wide-area surveillance and target tracking.
- Precision Strike: Engagement of high-value targets with minimal collateral damage.
- Maritime Patrol: Anti-piracy, EEZ monitoring, and ship tracking.
- Electronic Warfare: SIGINT collection, radar warning, and communication disruption.
- Border & Pipeline Security: Long-duration monitoring of remote infrastructure.
- Disaster Response: Real-time imaging during floods, earthquakes, or wildfires.
- Battlefield Management: Real-time video feed to command centers for decision support.
- MUM-T Integration: Acts as a sensor node for manned aircraft or ground units.
Support & Export Configuration
The CH-4 is offered with full lifecycle support:
- Comprehensive training (flight, weapons, maintenance, intelligence analysis)
- Spare parts, engines, weapons, and payload modules
- Mission planning software with 3D terrain modeling and AI-assisted route optimization
- Remote diagnostics, OTA updates, and technical advisory teams
- Civilian variant available for environmental monitoring, geological surveying, and aerial mapping
Available Configurations:
- ISR-Only (SAR + EO/IR)
- Armed Strike (6 hardpoints, mixed weapons)
- Maritime Patrol (MSR, AIS, corrosion protection)
- SIGINT/ELINT Version
- Export-Compliant Weapon Suite (meets international arms regulations)
Proven in Iraq, Nigeria, UAE, Algeria, and Pakistan, the CH-4 is a trusted, battle-hardened platform that delivers persistent presence, precision power, and strategic insight.
Pictures – Videos
