China’s aviation sector has achieved a significant technological breakthrough with the successful production of the SUNNY-T2000, a heavy-payload unmanned cargo aircraft capable of carrying two metric tons. This development marks a substantial advancement in the country’s capabilities for long-haul transportation, regional distribution, and last-mile delivery solutions.
Manufactured by Shenyang Sunny Aeronautics and Space Adventure Company, the drone officially rolled off production lines in Shenyang, Liaoning Province, on December 12, 2025. The aircraft features a substantial 15-cubic-meter rectangular cargo bay designed to accommodate diverse freight including emergency supplies, industrial components, and agricultural products.
According to Professor He Jun, Chairman of Shenyang Sunny Aeronautics and Space Adventure and academic at Shenyang Aerospace University, the SUNNY-T2000 boasts an operational range exceeding 1,000 kilometers when fully loaded. The aircraft requires only an 800-meter runway for takeoff and landing operations, making it particularly suitable for reaching remote locations and navigating challenging terrain.
Beyond conventional cargo transport, the drone’s design incorporates aerial cargo drop capabilities, expanding its potential applications to emergency rescue missions and forest firefighting operations. This multifunctional approach addresses limitations in existing cargo aircraft regarding payload capacity, internal space, and range efficiency.
The development represents part of a broader strategic initiative in Shenbei New District, which has designated the low-altitude economy as a priority emerging industry during China’s 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025). The district has attracted over thirty enterprises specializing in low-altitude technologies, creating a comprehensive manufacturing ecosystem.
Infrastructure development has kept pace with technological advancements, with authorities approving fourteen airspaces and two dedicated drone logistics test routes—the largest and highest-quality airspace resources in Liaoning Province. The district has also established twenty-one temporary takeoff and landing points alongside ongoing construction of key facilities including Shenbei General Airport and the second phase of the Aifeike flight camp.
Looking forward, the company is already advancing more ambitious projects including 6-ton and 7-ton cargo drone models, with the 6-ton variant designed to accommodate space equivalent to a 40GP standard container (approximately 67 cubic meters). Development is also underway for a 10-ton commercial cargo aircraft targeting cross-regional heavy cargo transportation.
These developments collectively contribute to forming a multi-tiered logistics network that integrates with existing transportation infrastructure while expanding capabilities for specialized applications across multiple industries.