The FP-985 Taurus cargo drone, developed in China, recently completed a logistics flight of more than 1,100 kilometers in high-altitude regions, connecting Sichuan province to the Xizang Autonomous Region in the country’s southwest.
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The operation reinforces China’s capability to deploy unmanned aircraft in transport missions across extreme terrain.
With a payload capacity of up to 2 tons, the FP-985 was designed to operate in complex environments such as mountainous areas, islands, and remote locations. The model features short takeoff and landing capability and can operate from runways with limited infrastructure, increasing its logistical versatility.
According to chief designer Wei Yachuan, the piston engine was modified to ensure efficient performance at altitudes of up to 4,000 meters, while maintaining the same reliability seen in low-altitude regions. In addition, the aircraft is prepared for continuous operations, with protection systems against icing, lightning, and strong winds.
Inspired by a modernized version of the classic Soviet An-2, the FP-985 now adopts a monoplane configuration enabled by a more powerful engine. The drone has a maximum takeoff weight of 5.7 tons, a cruising speed of 200 km/h, and an operational ceiling of up to 7,500 meters, consolidating itself as a new Chinese bet for unmanned aerial logistics missions in challenging scenarios.
Source: Militarnyi | Photo: X @ChinaScience | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
China’s domestically developed large fixed-wing drone, the FP-985 “Taurus,” completed a long-distance logistics flight across the high-altitude regions between Sichuan and Xizang on Wednesday.
Loaded with local specialties including butter tea and yak dairy products, the Taurus… pic.twitter.com/lmx5HnDMFG— China Science (@ChinaScience) January 15, 2026
