China unveils fly-sized micro-drone prototype

The National University of Defense Technology in China has developed a micro-drone modeled after a fly. The device measures approximately 2 centimeters in length and weighs less than 0.3 grams. It features four hair-thin legs and utilizes flapping wings that mimic insect flight, allowing for near-silent operation. The drone is controlled via Bluetooth from a smartphone and is equipped with a micro-camera, a microphone, and sensors capable of capturing visual, audio, and electronic data. As of June 2026, the device remains a laboratory prototype with significant limitations. It has a flight autonomy of only 1 to 3 minutes, is fragile, and is highly sensitive to wind conditions. While the technology demonstrates the potential for future surveillance applications, current power supply and sensor constraints restrict its operational capacity.