China's military researchers have unveiled a mosquito-sized surveillance drone in June 2025, developed at the National University of Defence Technology (NUDT) in Hunan province[^1]. The bionic microdrone measures about 2 cm long, weighs 0.3 grams, and features two leaf-like wings that can flap 500 times per second, along with three hair-thin legs[^2].

The device is designed for covert military operations and battlefield reconnaissance, with sensors and circuits packed into its tiny frame[^3]. "Miniature bionic robots like this one are especially suited to information reconnaissance and special missions on the battlefield," said NUDT student Liang Hexiang while demonstrating the drone on state television[^4].

Security experts warn about potential risks. "If China is able to produce mosquito-sized drones, it would likely be interested in using them for various intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance tasks, especially in places that larger drones struggle to access," said Georgetown research fellow Sam Bresnick[^5].

The drone's small size makes it nearly invisible to conventional radar systems, though experts note its diminutive scale could limit operational range and endurance[^6].

[^1]: SCMP - Chinese military lab creates mosquito-sized microdrone for covert operations

[^2]: Euronews - China unveils tiny spy drone that looks like a mosquito

[^3]: SCMP - Chinese military lab creates mosquito-sized microdrone for covert operations

[^4]: NY Post - China unveils eerie mosquito-sized drone designed for stealth military operations

[^5]: CSET - China unveils mosquito-sized drone

[^6]: NY Post - China unveils eerie mosquito-sized drone designed for stealth military operations