China continues to strengthen its leadership in the development of unmanned technologies, presenting the drone Feiyi, which is able to work both under water and in the air. The development that was carried out by scientists of the Northwestern Polytechnic University (NWPU) and the Chinese Center for Research and Development in Aerodynamics (CardC) is an important breakthrough in military technology, writes South China Morning Post.
Feiyi is the world's first drone that can start from under water from the submarine. The unique design allows it to run repeatedly between the sea and the sky, returning to the submarine, which gives it a significant advantage in the strategy of masking and survival. A key feature of the drone is the complex wings that reduce water resistance, as well as special screws for underwater movement. "Feiyi has great potential for use in maritime intelligence, observation, strikes and attacks," said Associate Professor NWPU Dong Chanin. According to him, the ability of the drone to move both on water and in the air during one cycle of starting significantly increases the level of masking and survival.
This drone can also carry intelligence equipment, communication modules or specialized modules to perform autonomous tasks that use artificial intelligence technologies. Thanks to these possibilities, Feiyi is able to dramatically change the balance of power in potential military conflicts, giving China a strategic advantage. Unlike American drones, who, according to South China Morning Post, are usually disposable and cannot move underwater, the Chinese drone Feiyi is characterized by reusable use. Feiyi's blades are made in just 5 seconds, making it more mobile and secretive.
American drones are usually started from torpedo -shaped submarines. After entering the surface, such devices remain in the air, which makes them vulnerable to attacks. Instead, the Chinese drone is able to dive into the water, which gives it much more resistance and avoids detection.
