ZIYAN Technology has successfully completed a real-world flight test of its Grey Whale G1 unmanned helicopter, validating the platform’s long-range transport capability using an onboard winch-based payload delivery system.
The test campaign confirmed the unmanned helicopter’s ability to perform external load missions over long distances in operational conditions. During evaluation flights, the aircraft lifted a 10-kilogram payload using a winch configuration and flew 33 kilometres. The team monitored payload stability, endurance and overall system reliability throughout the mission.
According to the company, the collected data provides measurable, field-based validation of the Grey Whale G1’s transport performance, demonstrating the platform’s suitability for real operational scenarios rather than controlled test environments alone.
The winch-based payload system enables flexible cargo handling without requiring the aircraft to land at the delivery site. This capability allows the Grey Whale G1 to support logistics resupply, emergency delivery and complex transport tasks in confined, hazardous or otherwise inaccessible locations where conventional landing operations may not be possible.
Despite the aerodynamic and control challenges associated with carrying an external suspended load, the unmanned helicopter maintained stable and controlled flight throughout the entire mission, confirming the effectiveness of its flight control and load-management systems.
The Grey Whale G1 is designed to provide reliable payload endurance in demanding operational environments. ZIYAN Technology stated that the successful demonstration reflects its emphasis on field-validated performance, using real-world flight missions to verify system capabilities and operational readiness rather than relying solely on theoretical specifications.
