Barely bigger than a fly: Video shows Chinese micro-drone
China’s National University of Defense Technology (NUDT) in Changsha, Hunan Province, has unveiled a microscopic drone barely larger than a fly. First featured in a report on military channel CCTV 7, the drone was shown delicately held between two fingers by a NUDT doctoral student, who described it as “especially well-suited for reconnaissance and special operations on the battlefield.”
The micro drone reportedly measures just 0.51 inches in length and uses two blade-like wings for propulsion. It is equipped with three hair-thin legs that function as miniature landing gear. The South China Morning Post compares it to the Norwegian Black Hornet, a reconnaissance drone used by the British, U.S. and German armed forces. However, the Black Hornet is significantly larger, measuring around 10 centimeters in length.
Possible uses and challenges
This tiny robotic flyer is likely to attract attention for covert military operations – such as reconnaissance behind enemy lines, surveillance of sensitive sites or target marking. However, the developers also emphasize its potential for civilian use – including monitoring air and water quality, inspecting hard-to-reach industrial facilities or locating people trapped under rubble.
Despite these promising applications, the true practicality of the tiny drone remains uncertain, as its power supply presents a major hurdle. Insect-sized lithium polymer batteries provide only enough energy for a few seconds – or at best, a couple of minutes – of flight. Additional challenges include the miniaturization of sensors, data transmission systems and control electronics. Significant breakthroughs are still needed before such drones can be deployed effectively – especially in swarms.
