Last month, China hosted its first International Advanced Air Mobility Expo, showcasing its ambitions to dominate what Beijing calls the “low-altitude economy,” a fast-growing sector in the airspace below 3,000 meters (about 9,840 feet) that includes drone deliveries, electric air taxis, and other uncrewed aerial services. The event featured cutting-edge technologies such as the world’s first seven-seat, three-ton electric vertical takeoff-and-landing aircraft; hydrogen-powered drones; and large fixed-wing cargo drones.

The takeaway is clear: While the United States is playing catch-up with the first drone revolution, China is racing ahead to lead the next one.

This time, the revolution is in delivery drones. Unlike the first generation of consumer drones designed for photography or recreational use, these aircraft are built to carry hundreds or even thousands of pounds over long distances, flying at low altitudes and, increasingly, autonomously.

And the country that dominates delivery drone technology will not only shape the future of global commerce, but also secure a decisive military advantage.

Read the full article on Foreign Policy.