Chinese thrust system pushes drones deeper into high-subsonic flight

A Chinese research team from Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, led by Professor Xu Jinglei, has successfully demonstrated an innovative aerodynamic thrust-vectoring nozzle on a high-subsonic drone, marking a significant milestone after nearly two decades of development. Unlike traditional thrust vectoring systems used on advanced fighters such as the F-35B or Su-37, which rely on heavy, mechanically complex actuators, this new system uses purely aerodynamic surfaces to reshape and redirect engine exhaust. This approach results in a lighter, simpler, and potentially more reliable nozzle that enhances maneuverability without adding moving parts. The technology was tested on the CK300 unmanned aerial vehicle, capable of speeds near Mach 0.9 and altitudes up to 42,650 feet, where it demonstrated a clear improvement in agility and a reduced turning radius, surpassing all performance expectations. The aerodynamic thrust-vectoring nozzle offers a transformative alternative to conventional mechanical systems by controlling pitch, yaw, and roll through