Technology10:26, 24-May-2026

CGTN

China's domestically developed F406 turbofan engine. /CMG

China's domestically developed 600-kilogram-thrust-class turbofan engine, the F406, completed its maiden flight test in north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region on Saturday.

According to Aero Engine Corporation of China, its developer, the flight was conducted on an advanced meteorological drone in a twin-engine configuration.

The successful flight marks the first time China has achieved independent control and domestic application of a medium and small-thrust high-end turbofan engine in the general aviation power sector, the company said.

Developed by the company's technology subsidiary, the F406 fills multiple technical gaps in China's small- and medium-thrust turbofan engine capabilities.

According to the company, the engine will be used in a range of mission platforms, including high-altitude inspection drones, relay communication drones, and long-endurance high-altitude unmanned aircraft.

Source(s): Xinhua News Agency