Air system · MALE
Wing Loong I
Reconnaissance / Strike
Also known as: Wing Loong / Pterodactyl I / GJ-1
Wing Loong I overview
The Wing Loong I (also known as Pterodactyl I or GJ-1 in PLA service) is a medium-altitude, long-endurance unmanned aerial vehicle developed by the Chengdu Aircraft Corporation under AVIC. First flown in 2007, the Wing Loong I was China's first major armed MALE drone and has been widely exported to countries in the Middle East, Central Asia, and Africa. The aircraft has a wingspan of 14 meters, endurance of about 20 hours, and can carry two hardpoints with air-to-ground missiles.
The Wing Loong I was designed as a lower-cost alternative to the American MQ-1 Predator and found significant export success due to China's willingness to sell armed drones without the restrictive conditions imposed by the United States. It has been used operationally by the UAE, Egypt, and other operators for counterterrorism and border security missions. As of 2025, the Wing Loong I has been largely superseded by the more capable Wing Loong II in production, but it remains in service with numerous operators. Its significance lies in being China's first successful armed drone export, establishing the country as a major player in the international drone market.
Armament
BA-7 ATM, FT-7 50kg guided bomb
Development and operational timeline
- Wing Loong I completes maiden flight
- Wing Loong I enters PLA Air Force service as GJ-1
- Egypt receives first Wing Loong I export delivery
- Wing Loong I used in counterterrorism operations in Middle East
- Wing Loong I continues service with multiple export customers