Wing Loong drones used in disaster relief, weather study

China's Wing Loong series of unmanned aircraft have long been known for their strong combat capability, good performance in battles and popularity among foreign buyers.

Now, their manufacturer－the State-owned defense conglomerate Aviation Industry Corp of China－said the powerful machines are not only suited for theater reconnaissance and precision strikes, but can also serve a host of civilian purposes.

The most recent example, which involved a Wing Loong 2H that provided communication signals to people besieged by floods in Henan province, has gone viral in Chinese media and social networks, with internet users calling it a "magic drone" that helps to save lives.