Autonomous underwater drones capable of detecting and neutralizing naval mines emerged as one of the standout attractions at China’s 2026 Chengdu Defense Technology Industry Expo, where the country also showcased robotic combat dogs and other advanced unmanned systems.

Among the most notable exhibits were submarine-launched autonomous underwater vehicles designed for deep-sea operations and reconnaissance missions. The systems can reportedly be deployed through both 260mm and 533mm torpedo tubes, allowing submarines to launch them without surfacing.

Chinese developers said the vehicles are intended for high-precision oceanographic surveys, seabed mapping and underwater reconnaissance. The larger model is capable of operating at depths of up to 9,800 feet, highlighting China’s growing investment in AI-enabled naval and autonomous warfare technologies.

Underwater drone can map seabeds and neutralise threats

Chinese state media described the new system as an autonomous underwater “scout” capable of conducting reconnaissance, long-range patrols and mine-clearing missions without direct human guidance or external software support.

According to broadcaster China Central Television, the underwater vehicle can be equipped with specialised mission modules that allow it to detect and neutralise underwater threats, including naval mines. Its modular design also enables operators to install additional battery packs for extended operations or advanced sensor systems for deep-sea reconnaissance and seabed mapping.

The report described the platform as an intelligent underwater robot operating independently on behalf of its “mother submarine”, highlighting China’s continued push toward AI-enabled autonomous naval warfare systems, the South China Morning Post writes.

Robot dogs and “robot wolves” used by the People’s Liberation Army were also showcased at the expo, highlighting China’s growing focus on unmanned ground combat systems. Chinese state media said the robots can navigate difficult terrain and operate as stable mobile weapons platforms resistant to recoil and blast impacts.

Aerial cargo drone capable of hauling 3,300 pounds

Large unmanned cargo aircraft and heavy-lift supply drones were also among the latest logistics technologies presented at the exp. One of the key systems on display was Aviation Industry Corporation of China’s fixed-wing HH-200 “aerial truck”, designed to transport up to 3,300 pounds of cargo across long distances at relatively low operating costs.

The exhibition also featured a heavy-duty multirotor drone built for high stability during transport missions. According to Chinese state media, the platform can carry payloads of up to 1,100 pounds and airdrop supplies to remote military outposts or disaster-stricken areas.

Counter-drone systems were another major focus, with Chinese companies displaying technologies designed to detect, disrupt and neutralise hostile unmanned aircraft. Among the systems presented was an anti-drone swarm platform with a detection range of roughly 6 miles, combining radar, electro-optical and electromagnetic sensors to track aerial threats. 

The exhibition also featured portable electronic warfare equipment, including handheld spoofing guns and backpack-based systems capable of interfering with enemy drone controls and forcing them to land at designated locations. The systems are seen as part of a broader layered air defense network built around “soft-kill” electronic warfare measures rather than direct physical interception.