The media reported on the creation of a UAV capable of flying and swimming underwater in China
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- The media reported on the creation of a UAV capable of flying and swimming underwater in China
Scientists in China have created the world's first unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), which can both swim underwater and fly. This was reported by Chinese newspaper South China Morning Post (SCMP) on January 22, citing sources.
"Featuring a unique folding wing design, the drone can move between air and water several times in a single flight, thereby significantly improving its camouflage and survival abilities," the publication quotes scientists involved in the development.
It is noted that the drone is launched from a submarine, after which it is able to repeatedly move between water and air spaces. Thus, the drone combines effective underwater navigation and high maneuverability in the air.
The drone has four pairs of rotating blades that can be folded, allowing them to fit snugly against the fuselage, thereby significantly reducing drag underwater. The underwater propellers located at the tail of the device, in turn, provide propulsion.
According to the publication, the drone can be used for maritime reconnaissance and strikes.
The UAV was created by researchers from Northwestern Polytechnic University and the China Aerodynamics Research and Development Center. The drone is named Feiyi, which means "to fly" in Chinese, while the character was used more than 3,000 years ago to describe a water bird that, spreading its wings, prepares to take off for the surface.
Before that, on January 4, SCMP reported that Chinese scientists are developing an autocannon capable of firing 450,000 rounds per minute and shooting down missiles flying at hypersonic speeds of more than Mach 7 (8,300 km/h).
