Overview

• The stealthy drone measures just 1.3 to 2 centimeters long with a 3-centimeter wingspan and mimics mosquito flight using bionic wings and ultra-thin legs.
• Scientists at China’s National University of Defense Technology in Hunan province revealed the device in a CCTV-7 video on June 24.
• Operators can pilot the micro-device via smartphone, enabling silent navigation into indoor or confined areas while bypassing radar.
• Its tiny battery and limited sensor capacity restrict flight time and require operators to remain close to collect data.
• The project reflects a broader global push in microrobotics, echoing efforts like Norway’s Black Hornet program and Harvard’s RoboBee research.