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China Tests Military Drone For Cloud-Seeding In Xinjiang
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Posted on Aug 9, 2024
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Fact-Checked by Justyn Newman Lead Cybersecurity Editor
The South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported on August 7 that China has launched a cloud-seeding trial in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region using a long-endurance drone, marking the first deployment of this technology in the arid western region. The trial, which began on Sunday, employs the TB-A strike and reconnaissance drone, also known as the Twin-tailed Scorpion A.
The TB-A drone, typically used for military operations, has been adapted for this trial by loading it with silver iodide rods, a common rain-inducing agent. This 45-day trial is focused on the Dongtian mountain area, one of the most water-scarce regions in China. The goal is to test the drone’s cloud-seeding capabilities in high-altitude, drought-prone areas, according to the SCMP.
The TB-A, developed by civilian company Sichuan Tengden, is an advanced version of the TB-001 combat drone. The drone’s capabilities include carrying 24 silver iodide rods and 200 smoke grenades, as well as equipment for cloud particle detection and wind radar, as reported by The SCMP.
This trial is not the first instance of the TB-A being used for weather modification. The drone was previously employed in Sichuan during the summer of 2022 amid a severe heatwave and in Yunnan for drought relief in October of the same year. Despite its advancements, cloud-seeding remains a controversial practice due to concerns about its effectiveness and potential environmental impacts.
The use of the TB-A drone in Xinjiang reflects China’s ongoing efforts to address climate challenges through technological innovation, even as the efficacy and environmental consequences of cloud-seeding continue to spark debate.
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