China has successfully tested a 3D-printed turbojet engine that powered a drone for a 30-minute continuous flight, marking a major advancement in unmanned aerospace and defence technology. The trial highlights China’s ability to rapidly manufacture propulsion systems for future combat drones and loitering munitions.
China Tests 3D-Printed Turbojet Engine for Drone
Key Details of the Engine Test
The test was conducted by the Aero Engine Corporation of China. The lightweight engine produced about 160 kg of thrust, and more than 75% of its parts were 3D-printed using additive manufacturing.
The drone achieved:
✦ Altitude: 6,000 metres
✦ Speed: Up to Mach 0.75
✦ Recovery: Parachute landing after flight
The use of additive manufacturing helped to reduce weight, simplify engine structure, and speed up assembly.
Military and Industrial Importance
The engine is designed for:
- Loitering munitions (kamikaze drones)
- Unmanned aircraft
- Target drones
3D printing allows:
✔ Faster development cycles
✔ Lower production cost
✔ Rapid mass manufacturing of expendable defence systems
The test also shows progress in indigenous aerospace engine research, supporting China’s efforts to reduce foreign dependence.
Strategic and Technological Impact
Aerospace propulsion is one of the most complex defence technologies globally.
China’s achievement indicates a shift toward:
▶ Fast-produced, lightweight drone engines
▶ More efficient surveillance, strike, and swarm operations
▶ Stronger supply chain independence
This could influence global drone competition and increase China’s readiness for high-altitude and high-speed unmanned missions.
Exam-Oriented Points (Quick Notes)
| Point | Data |
|---|---|
| Engine thrust | ~160 kg |
| Flight duration | 30 minutes |
| 3D printed components | Over 75% |
| Max speed | Mach 0.75 |
| Peak altitude | 6,000 metres |
| Conducted by | Aero Engine Corporation of China |
| Purpose | Loitering munitions, unmanned aircraft, target drones |
Question & Answer
Q1. Which country tested the 3D-printed turbojet engine for a drone?
(a) USA
(b) Japan
(c) China
(d) South Korea
Answer: China
Explanation: The test was conducted by the Aero Engine Corporation of China.
Q2. How much thrust did the tested turbojet engine produce?
(a) 50 kg
(b) 100 kg
(c) 160 kg
(d) 300 kg
Answer: 160 kg
Explanation: The engine delivered around 160 kg of thrust.
Q3. What percentage of engine components were 3D-printed?
(a) 25%
(b) 40%
(c) 60%
(d) Over 75%
Answer: Over 75%
Explanation: Most of the engine parts were produced using additive manufacturing.
Q4. The drone reached a top speed of approximately:
(a) Mach 0.30
(b) Mach 0.75
(c) Mach 1.2
(d) Mach 2.0
Answer: Mach 0.75
Explanation: It reached speeds up to Mach 0.75 during the test flight.
Q5. What is one major benefit of additive manufacturing for drones?
(a) Slower assembly
(b) Higher fuel consumption
(c) Rapid and low-cost production
(d) Increased engine noise
Answer: Rapid and low-cost production
Explanation: 3D printing supports fast and cost-efficient production of expendable drone systems.
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