Video: Is India Falling Behind in the Combat Drone Race?

China’s CH-7 stealth unmanned aerial vehicle marks a significant advance in modern military aviation and has sparked debate over India’s position in the global combat drone race. Developed by the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, the CH-7 features a flying-wing design that lowers radar detection while improving endurance and operational reach.

The drone reportedly has a wingspan of around 22 metres, can operate at altitudes of up to 15,000 metres, and cruises at nearly 0.75 Mach. With a range exceeding 7,000 kilometres and a payload capacity of about 1,000 kilograms, the CH-7 is built for extended missions inside heavily defended airspace. Its capabilities span intelligence collection, surveillance, reconnaissance, and precision strike roles.

The UAV completed its maiden flight in December 2025, marking its move into full-scale testing. The successful trial demonstrated autonomous takeoff, landing, and advanced flight-control systems. The CH-7 underscores China’s push to strengthen its unmanned combat fleet, placing it in direct competition with cutting-edge Western drones and potentially altering the air-power balance in the Indo-Pacific region.