AirShow China 2018: Beihang BZK-005 UAV now offered to export market.

Beihang UAS' BZK-005 is now offered to the export market, the company confirmed at AirShow China 2018, held from 6 to 11 november in Zhuhai. According to the company, the BZK-005 UAV is now in service with the PLAAN, PLAAF and PLA intelligence units.

BZK-005E UAV at AirShow China 2018
(Picture source Army Recognition)

Unveiled to the public at AirShow China 2006, the BZK-005 UAV is a high-altitude, long-range reconnaissance UAV designed by by Beijing University of Aeronautics & Astronautics and Harbin Aircraft Industry.

The BZK-005E has a maximum operational ceiling of 8,000 meters and a maximum speed of 170 kph. The BZK-005 is believed to feature a satellite data link antenna held in the large upper body dome. It also carry an EO/IR sensor under its nose. It is expected that the UAV has a max payload over 150 kg. The drone features more than 40 hours of endurance, according to specification estimates.

 A strike-capable variant called TYW-1 appeared in November 2017. The TYW-1 version can carry a 370 kg payload and features four underwing pylons for carrying air-to-air, air-to-surface missile, or ISR pods. It is believed to have a maximum take-off weight of 1,500 kg compared with the 1,250 kg of the BZK-005.