THE Shenzhen Integrated Ground-Air Intelligent Connected Test Base recently launched low-altitude operations at the Bay Area Intelligent Connected Test Field in Pingshan District.

The 43-hectare test field, which also serves as a testing ground for intelligent connected vehicles (ICVs), officially opened in June 2024. Following recent upgrades, the facility now features four professional takeoff and landing sites, a comprehensive laboratory building that integrates testing, hangars, and dispatch functions.

Advanced equipment has been installed, including 5G-Advanced base stations, low-altitude detection radar, electro-optical detection devices, wind-profiling radar, and weather stations. This integrated low-altitude digital system covers communications, navigation, surveillance, and meteorology, supporting full-range testing and certification services for drones of all sizes.

The site has also carried out innovative trials to create an environment for coordinated operations between ICVs and low-altitude aircraft, laying a foundation for the development of standards and scenario validation for integrated land-air transport systems.

Ten testing scenarios are being developed at the site, including low-altitude sightseeing, paragliding, emergency rescue, air logistics, firefighting drills, and drone performances. Six training bases and laboratories have also been unveiled.

Next, Pingshan plans to build a 20-sq-km low-altitude economy industrial zone encompassing core technologies, component and aircraft manufacturing, system integration, and application services and operations.(Cao Zhen)