The Wide-Range Flight Engineering Science and Applications Center (WESA) was established in 2021 to serve national strategic requirements and advance noteworthy accomplishments. WESA consists of the Advanced Manufacturing Process Mechanics Laboratory and the Aerospace Flight Technology Center (in preparation). As the "key division" of the Institute of Mechanics, it adheres to the principles of engineering science and is committed to enhancing comprehensive innovation capabilities.

WESA focuses on addressing major strategic needs in aerospace technology and high-end manufacturing processes and studying mechanics in complex systems within the domains of near-space broad-spectrum flight and advanced manufacturing. Drawing on the innovation advantages of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, WESA has developed innovative theories and methods in the fields of broad-spectrum flight, laser manufacturing, and multi-factor space environment simulation and experiment. Throughout the execution of major missions, the center has integrated the practice of "engineering science" with the exploration of novel organizational and management mechanisms. We have established new teams that blend "engineering science" and "engineering management". These endeavors have accelerated the pace of iteration from fundamental innovation to comprehensive validation and back to fundamental innovation, thereby reinforcing the original innovation capabilities, key technology research expertise, and integration proficiency of the Institute of Mechanics.