The ZQHW-120 is a revolutionary man-portable, fire-and-forget reconnaissance and strike UAV system designed for dismounted infantry, special forces, and rapid reaction units. Developed by China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), the ZQHW-120 integrates real-time intelligence gathering, autonomous target tracking, and precision kinetic effect into a single lightweight platform that can be carried and operated by one soldier.
Unlike traditional loitering munitions or simple FPV drones, the ZQHW-120 features an AI-enabled onboard processor, dual-mode EO/IR seeker, and loitering capability, allowing operators to conduct reconnaissance over the hill or around the corner, identify targets, and execute a precision dive attack — all within under 90 seconds from launch to impact.
With a range of up to 15 km, 30-minute endurance, and a warhead optimized for light armor and personnel, the ZQHW-120 provides frontline troops with an immediate, responsive, and lethal capability against enemy machine gun nests, snipers, technicals, command posts, and lightly fortified positions — without relying on artillery or air support.
Its tube-launched design, foldable composite airframe, and quiet electric propulsion make it ideal for covert operations in urban, mountainous, and jungle environments. The system is fully autonomous after launch, with optional man-in-the-loop control via encrypted digital datalink for mission abort or re-targeting.
The ZQHW-120 is not just a drone — it’s a smart tactical missile with eyes, transforming every soldier into a precision strike node.
Key Features
- True One-Soldier Operation: Entire system carried in two backpacks (UAV + GCS), assembled and launched in <3 minutes.
- Reconnaissance & Strike Dual Role: Loiters for ISR, then attacks with precision — no need for separate platforms.
- AI-Powered Target Recognition: Onboard AI identifies and tracks vehicles, personnel, and static threats.
- Fire-and-Forget / Man-in-the-Loop Options:
- Fully autonomous mode: Pre-programmed target coordinates
- Semi-autonomous mode: Operator selects target via live video feed
- Manual override available at any time
- Dual-Mode Seeker:
- HD daylight camera (1080p)
- Uncooled thermal imager (640×512)
- Automatic target acquisition and lock-on
- Precision Kinetic Warhead:
- Multi-purpose blast-fragmentation / shaped charge
- Effective against light armored vehicles (APC-level), bunkers, and groups of personnel
- Low collateral damage profile
- Operational Range: Up to 15 km line-of-sight
- Loitering Endurance: 25–30 minutes for persistent surveillance
- Secure Digital Datalink: AES-256 encrypted COFDM transmission, anti-jamming, frequency-agile
- Quiet Electric Propulsion: Brushless motor and folding propeller for low acoustic signature
- Tube-Launched: Pneumatic/electric cold launch from ground or vehicle mount
- All-Weather Capability: Operates in rain, fog, and moderate wind (Beaufort 4)
- Rapid Deployment: Ready to launch in under 3 minutes
- Compact & Lightweight: Total system weight <15 kg
- Modular Design: Swappable payloads (e.g., SIGINT sensor, chemical detector)
- Ground Control Unit (GCU): Ruggedized handheld tablet with touchscreen, joystick, and 3D situational display
- Low Cost per Unit: Designed for mass deployment and expendable use
Technical Specifications
Parameter |
Specification |
|---|---|
| System Designation | ZQHW-120 Individual Portable R&S System |
| UAV Type | Fixed-wing, folding wing, pusher propeller |
| Wingspan (Deployed) | 1.2 m |
| Length | 0.95 m |
| MTOW (Max Takeoff Weight) | 5.2 kg |
| Empty Weight | 3.0 kg |
| Warhead Weight | 1.5 kg (multi-purpose) |
| Propulsion | Brushless electric motor + folding propeller |
| Power Source | Rechargeable lithium-polymer battery |
| Cruise Speed | 100–120 km/h |
| Dive Attack Speed | Up to 180 km/h |
| Service Ceiling | 3,000 m (9,800 ft) |
| Operating Altitude (AGL) | 50 – 2,500 m |
| Wind Resistance | Up to 60 km/h (Beaufort 4) |
| Flight Endurance | 25–30 minutes |
| Operational Radius | Up to 15 km |
| Control Range | 15 km (LOS) |
| Communication Link | Digital COFDM, encrypted, frequency-agile |
| Encryption | AES-256 |
| Navigation System | GPS/BeiDou + MEMS-INS |
| Autonomous Functions | Auto takeoff, waypoint nav, orbit, target lock, dive attack, impact |
| Payload Sensors | HD EO camera, uncooled IR camera, laser rangefinder (optional) |
| Target Recognition | AI-based classification (vehicle, human, structure) |
| Launch Method | Tube-launched (pneumatic/electric cold launch) |
| Launch Platform | Ground tripod, vehicle mount, or shoulder assist |
| Ground Control Unit (GCU) | Handheld rugged tablet with touchscreen and joystick |
| Crew | 1 operator |
| Power Supply (GCU) | Internal rechargeable battery (8+ hours) |
| Operating Temperature | -20°C to +55°C |
| Storage & Transport | Disassembled in two backpacks (UAV + GCU/battery) |
| Total System Weight | <15 kg |
Operational Roles
- Urban Warfare: Clear buildings, alleys, and rooftops without exposure.
- Special Operations: Silent reconnaissance and precision elimination of high-value targets.
- Counter-Drone Defense: Detect and physically engage hostile micro-drones.
- Forward Observer Replacement: Replace traditional scouts in high-risk zones.
- Ambush Prevention: Scan ahead of convoys or patrols for IEDs and ambushes.
- Close Air Support (CAS) on Demand: Immediate strike capability without waiting for aircraft.
- Border Patrol: Rapid response to intrusions in remote areas.
- Disaster Zone Assessment: Safe entry into collapsed structures or contaminated zones.
Support & Export Configuration
The ZQHW-120 is offered as a complete turnkey system:
- Training simulator (VR-based)
- Spare UAVs, batteries, and launch tubes
- Mission planning software (KML import, route optimization)
- Remote diagnostics and firmware updates
- Civilian variant available for search and rescue, wildlife monitoring, and infrastructure inspection
Available Configurations:
- Combat Strike Version (standard warhead)
- Non-Lethal Variant (flash-bang, tear gas, loudspeaker)
- ISR-Only Version (no warhead, extended endurance)
- SIGINT/COMINT Payload Option
- Export-Compliant Model (geofencing, reduced range)
Ideal for special forces, police SWAT teams, border guards, and forward reconnaissance units, the ZQHW-120 delivers eyes and firepower in one hand-carried package.
