CRI听力:Shanghai Set to Use Drone for Firefighting

The 1.5-kilogram drones, made of carbon fiber, are equipped with an infrared cameras, allowing them to see in the dark.

They will also be fitted with radar systems and communications antenna to extend monitoring capabilities.

But the truly outstanding feature of these drones is said to be their ability to stay airborne around-the-clock.

Chen Guangwen is responsible for developing the new drone models and explains how these drones are able to stay in the air for so long.

"The conventional drones are powered by gasoline, methanol or lithium batteries, which limit the flying time and can be a trouble. Our drones are powered by a ground facility that supplies electricity."

A team of trained operators will have permission to fly the unmanned aircraft up to 100 meters above ground and 1,000 meters away from the point it is being controlled.

Drones are increasingly being used in China for public security tasks, such as firefighting and anti-terrorism operations.

In 2015, the country's Ministry of Public Security dispatched drones during emergency responses on about 500 occasions.

Tang Qianjin is an expert from the ministry.

He says drones cost less than police helicopters and are more flexible in conducting surveillance:

"In terms of perspective, they have a large-scale visual angle and can take an overall view of the ground situation, which lack traditional surveillance means. Then they are flexible. Actually we used to rely on fixed surveillance cameras, but drones are maneuverable,"

In addition, Tang says the non-stop power supply of drones allows them to have greater use in high security events.

"A lot of events of high security could last for half a day or even longer. Previously, we would have to find a high commanding point to photograph the entire process."

The new drones are also expected to be used for conducting missions including transportation control, forest fire prevention, and preservation of cultural relics.

For CRI, this is Huang Yue.