China has unveiled a mosquito-sized drone designed for covert surveillance and “special missions”, triggering global concern over its potential use in espionage and asymmetric warfare.
Developed by the National University of Defence Technology (NUDT) and showcased on state-run CCTV 7, the insect-like UAV weighs under 0.2 grams, mimics a mosquito’s form, and can be controlled via smartphone.
While its battlefield utility is limited by its short battery life and sensor range, analysts warn the drone’s stealth and size make it ideal for indoor spying. This includes slipping through windows or into secure facilities.
Experts from RAND and Georgetown say it could be used to track individuals or intercept conversations, raising red flags for privacy, cybersecurity, and military counterintelligence.
The drone’s debut underscores China’s push into micro-robotics and dual-use tech, joining a global race that includes Norway’s Black Hornet and Harvard’s RoboBee.
For investors, it signals rising demand for nano-engineering, surveillance tech, and counter-drone systems — especially as geopolitical tensions sharpen the focus on next-gen intelligence tools.
