China deploys first police manned drone

China’s first police manned drone, the EH216S, has been deployed in Huangpu District, Guangzhou, marking a notable advance in urban public security aviation. The eight-axis, 16-rotor aircraft has a maximum takeoff weight of 650 kilograms, can carry two personnel, reach a certified top speed of 130 km/h and operate along preset flight paths for up to 30 kilometers, supporting both manned missions and unmanned autonomous flight. Designed to combine helicopter-like capabilities with drone flexibility, the EH216S features vertical takeoff and landing, electric propulsion to reduce noise and emissions, and a suite of automated flight controls plus backup safety systems intended to ensure stable operation in complex urban environments.

Local police described the drone as a tool to enhance rapid response and situational awareness across a range of scenarios, including routine patrols, emergency response, traffic management and search-and-rescue operations. Officials said the platform’s low-altitude operation and ability to deploy quickly—often within minutes—make it particularly useful in densely built districts where conventional helicopters face logistical constraints. Onboard systems provide real-time video transmission and multi-source data links, enabling officers in the aircraft to coordinate directly with ground units and relay live information for incident assessment and tactical decision-making.

Developers and authorities emphasized operational flexibility: the EH216S can carry officers and equipment for missions that require human judgment or direct intervention while also supporting autonomous flights on predetermined routes. Police officials characterized the Huangpu deployment as a pilot project, with performance to be closely evaluated before any broader adoption. They highlighted expected benefits such as shorter response times at large public events and improved capacity for handling natural disasters or complex emergencies.

The rollout reflects a broader trend in which Chinese cities increasingly integrate advanced aviation technologies into governance and public-safety toolkits. Observers noted the potential efficiency gains and expanded operational capabilities that manned drones offer compared with unmanned systems alone. Authorities said evaluations would address these concerns as the pilot proceeds, balancing technological innovation with legal and ethical safeguards before any wider rollout is considered.