Guizhou WZ-2000

The Guizhou WZ-2000, also known as the WuZhen-2000 and previously the WZ-9, is a multi-purpose Unmanned combat air vehicle (UCAV) developed by Guizhou Aviation Industry Group (GAIC) in the People's Republic of China.

Design and development[]

Development on the WZ-2000 began in 1999. A mock up of the WZ-2000 was publicly displayed at the 2000 Zhuhai Airshow, with a more accurate model on display at the 2002 event. First flight was on 26 December 2003, and there is sketchy news that an improved version, possibly designated the WZ-2000B, was due to fly at the end of 2005.

The UAV is powered by a single WS-11 turbofan engine which sits on top of the empennage between the two V-shaped tail fins. The fins are canted at approximately 40°. The sensor package includes thermal imaging camera, synthetic aperture radar, with images transmitted via a satellite communications antenna in the nose bulge.

Specifications[]

General characteristics

• Capacity: 80 kg (176 lb) payload
• Length: 7.5 m (24 ft 7 in)
• Wingspan: 9.8 m (32 ft 2 in)
• Max takeoff weight: 1,700 kg (3,748 lb)
• Powerplant: 1 × WS-11 turbofan, 16.9 kN (3,800 lbf) thrust

Performance

• Maximum speed: 800 km/h (500 mph, 430 kn)
• Range: 2,400 km (1,500 mi, 1,300 nmi)
• Combat range: 800 km (500 mi, 430 nmi)
• Endurance: 3 hours
• Service ceiling: 18,000 m (59,000 ft)

Armament

• At least 2 × KD2 air-to-surface missiles
• Additional number of ZD1 precision-guided bombs

See also[]

Aircraft of comparable role, configuration, and era

• Shenyang BA-5

External links[]

• Info from Chinese Defense Today