Pucheng, Oct. 29, 2024-- Today, a "Xian MA60" rain enhancement aircraft was officially delivered to the Hubei Meteorological Service Center. This delivery brings the China Meteorological Administration’s fleet of MA60 rain enhancement aircraft to five. The new aircraft will primarily serve Hubei Province and the broader central China region, working in coordination with aircraft based in northeastern and northwestern China to enable cross-regional operations.
The MA60 rain enhancement aircraft is renowned for its advanced features, including a high operational ceiling (up to 7,620 meters), extended range (up to 2,600 kilometers), and substantial payload capacity (up to 5.5 tons). These capabilities allow it to perform precise and scientific operations tailored to different precipitation cloud systems and various operational needs.
This newly delivered MA60 has been equipped with six specialized subsystems, including atmospheric detection, cloud seeding, air-ground information integration, and mission coordination. Notably, it features domestically developed atmospheric detection equipment and integrated software, enabling large-scale joint operations, scientific exploration, and seamless air-ground communication. The system supports autonomous control of data processing, achieving an effective cloud seeding area of up to 9,000 square kilometers per operation and a maximum operation duration of six hours.
Enhancements to this aircraft include an indigenously developed cloud/precipitation particle imaging probe and an icing severity warning system, significantly improving operational precision and safety.
With its state-of-the-art technology and capabilities, the MA60 will play a critical role in bolstering China’s weather modification initiatives and cross-regional meteorological services.
