China develops advanced Feiyi drone that operates underwater and in air
Illustrative photo: China has created Feiyi drone (Getty Images)
China has unveiled the unique Feiyi drone, capable of operating both underwater and in the air, reports the South China Morning Post.
The drone was developed by scientists from Northwestern Polytechnical University and the Chinese Aerodynamics Research and Development Center.
The developers say that Feiyi is the world's first drone that can be launched from underwater by a submarine. The drone can repeatedly transition between the sea and the sky, returning to the submarine. This capability was achieved thanks to its unique folding wing design, which reduces water resistance, and its propellers, which enable underwater movement.
"There will be great application potential in military fields such as marine reconnaissance, surveillance, strike, and attack," said Dong Changyin, an associate professor at NWPU.
Feiyi’s ability to move between water and air multiple times in a single launch cycle significantly enhances its stealth and survivability, the expert adds. The drone’s blades fold in just five seconds, making it more mobile and discreet.
The drone can carry reconnaissance equipment, communication modules, or specialized modules for autonomous missions utilizing artificial intelligence technologies. Experts believe Feiyi could dramatically shift the balance of power, providing China with a strategic advantage.
Chinese scientists earlier developed a military drone capable of quickly splitting into six separate parts mid-air. They claim this is a technological breakthrough that could reshape the battlefield.
