The Chinese military introduced bird-shaped reconnaissance drones. Recent images and footage circulated by China Central Television (CCTV) show these drones in use by the Marine Corps of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).
The new ornithopter, dubbed “Little Falcon,” was showcased during a recent test in Xi’an, the capital city of China’s northwestern Shaanxi province. The footage reveals a drone that flaps its wings in a natural manner, making it indistinguishable from living birds at a distance.
Bird-shaped drone used by the China’s military
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Developed by researchers at Northwestern Polytechnical University (NWPU), the ornithopter leverages a new crank mechanism that enables the drone to fold its wings while flapping. This technological advancement ensures nimble flight controls, making the “Little Falcon” the most agile and lifelike bird-like drone currently in existence, according to state media.
China has been involved in the development of ornithopters for several years. In 2018, the government launched the “Pigeon” program, which aimed to create mimetic drones for urban operations. These drones were designed to blend seamlessly into urban environments, avoiding detection.
In 2022, Chinese engineers unveiled a mechanical flying bird with a wingspan of two meters and a weight of 1,600 grams. This drone, powered by a lithium battery, could remain airborne for an hour and a half.
The PLA’s adoption of these drones indicates a shift in surveillance and intelligence-gathering strategies. The ability to operate discreetly and blend into natural environments provides a substantial tactical advantage, reducing the likelihood of detection by adversaries.
The development and deployment of bird-like drones by the Chinese military reflect a broader trend of using advanced technology to gain strategic advantages. This innovation could inspire similar advancements in other countries, potentially altering military doctrines and surveillance strategies worldwide.
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