A research team at China’s National University of Defense Technology (NUDT) has developed a mosquito-sized microdrone designed for reconnaissance and covert battlefield operations, state broadcaster CCTV revealed in a recent military-focused report.
According to South China Morning Post, the ultra-miniature drone, demonstrated on CCTV-7, features leaf-shaped wings and threadlike landing gear, with its compact body small enough to be held between two fingers. NUDT student Liang Hexiang described it as a "mosquito-like bionic robot" optimized for special missions and information gathering.
Developing such a small aerial vehicle poses significant technical challenges, requiring integration of power systems, sensors, control circuits, and materials into a microscopic frame. The effort combines advances in microdevices, bionics, and materials science.
The NUDT platform appears similar in form and function to other micro UAVs developed globally. These include the Norwegian-built Black Hornet, a palm-sized reconnaissance drone now in its fourth iteration, and Harvard’s experimental “RoboBee,” which can both swim and fly.
Micro-UAVs have become increasingly important for modern militaries seeking discreet, agile surveillance tools for complex environments. While China has not confirmed field deployment of its new microdrone, the demonstration signals ongoing investment in miniaturized autonomous systems amid growing global interest in battlefield robotics.