China Successfully Tests New Armed Helicopter Drone with Live Missile Strike

China has taken another major step forward in its drone warfare program by successfully conducting a live-fire test of an armed unmanned helicopter. The trial was led by Sichuan-based Tengden Technology, which announced that the missile strike was carried out by its first-ever female unmanned helicopter operator, Cheng Sijia.

The test was part of a larger series of payload trials conducted in late June and aimed to verify the operational capability of Tengden’s vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) drone platform under real-world conditions.

A Historic Mission for China’s Drone Program

According to the company, the mission was carefully planned and executed in close coordination with several Chinese defense partners. The armed drone, capable of taking off and landing like a helicopter without a runway, successfully launched a light-class air-to-surface missile during the test. The missile accurately struck its designated target, destroying it on impact and drawing cheers from the ground crew.

This event marked a major milestone, not just for China’s growing unmanned weapons program, but also for gender representation in the country’s defense technology sector. Cheng Sijia, who operated the drone remotely, became the first woman in China to command an unmanned helicopter combat mission involving live ammunition.

How the Test Was Carried Out

The test took place at dawn on July 1, coinciding with the anniversary of the founding of the Chinese Communist Party. Cheng remotely piloted the aircraft toward the target zone. Upon receiving confirmation to proceed, she entered the attack corridor, locked onto the target, and launched the missile — completing a successful strike.

Tengden described the test as a demonstration of both the reliability of its unmanned helicopter system and the growing role of women in China’s modern defense initiatives. Company reports highlight that Cheng, who joined Tengden as ground staff in 2023, earned her position through a competitive selection process and intense technical training.

Unmanned Helicopter Drones: A New Battlefield Asset

While details about the specific drone model and missile type remain undisclosed, images and footage from the test show a vertical takeoff platform performing an air-to-surface missile launch with notable precision.

Armed unmanned helicopters like this one are expected to play a vital role in modern warfare. They can be deployed for:

• Tactical strikes

• Reconnaissance and surveillance

• Border security

• Rapid-response missions in complex terrain

Their ability to operate without risking a human pilot and land in tight or challenging environments makes them valuable assets for both military and law enforcement agencies.

China’s Growing Focus on Unmanned Combat Systems

This latest success is part of China’s broader strategy to expand its unmanned systems capabilities. The country already operates several combat and surveillance drones and is now actively developing armed rotor-wing platforms for more flexible battlefield roles.

Though no timeline has been provided for when Tengden’s armed helicopter drone will enter production or frontline service, experts believe this successful test moves it a step closer to operational deployment. The platform could strengthen China’s ability to conduct precision strikes, border operations, and anti-terror missions in the years ahead.

A New Era for Women in China’s Defense Sector

Beyond the technical achievement, the mission highlighted the growing participation of women in China’s defense and aerospace industries. Cheng Sijia, speaking after the test, expressed her commitment to furthering her skills and proving the value of women in roles traditionally dominated by men.

“I will continue working hard, making breakthroughs, and showing the world the capabilities of women in China’s new era,” she said.

China’s successful test of a missile-armed unmanned helicopter drone not only enhances its military drone capabilities but also signals progress in integrating female talent into its defense technology sector. As the global race for unmanned combat systems intensifies, this achievement positions China to play a leading role in shaping the future of aerial warfare.