China has unveiled a soft-body bionic manta ray submersible capable of detecting simulated underwater explosive devices in dark waters with extremely low visibility.
According to a report by CCTV News, the robotic submersible successfully identified and locked onto targets in waters where visibility was less than one meter.
The system uses forward-looking sonar to locate objects in darkness and side-scan sonar to map the seabed while transmitting real-time data to command terminals.
Researchers based the design on a manta ray because of its unique swimming motion. Unlike most fish that move side to side, manta rays propel themselves forward with wave-like movements of their wide fins while keeping their bodies stable.
This design allows the robotic manta ray to carry complex equipment and operate sensitive sonar systems effectively.
The submersible also offers long endurance, with batteries supporting full-speed operations for dozens of hours and travel over hundreds of kilometres. When it glides by adjusting buoyancy, its operational range can extend to thousands of kilometres.
Engineers designed the device to withstand extreme underwater pressure. Its high-pressure-resistant hull protects core equipment from deep-sea conditions equivalent to around 200 atmospheres.
Even if communication cables are cut, the submersible can navigate autonomously and approach its target without losing direction.
The system can also operate in groups. Multiple robotic manta rays can form a sonar network, relaying signals and converting satellite communication into sonar signals that reach deep into the ocean.
Chinese military analyst Zhang Junshe said the technology offers strong survivability, navigation, and detection capabilities.
He noted that its stealth and pressure resistance could make it valuable for future naval missions, including detecting submarines and monitoring high-risk underwater environments.
