China’s near-silent wave-powered drones could redefine maritime patrols

Chinese researchers proposed AI-controlled, wave-powered unmanned surface vehicles for patrol and surveillance in disputed waters.

The drones are designed for long endurance and near-silent operation, making them hard to detect at sea.

The concept could support scalable autonomous patrol networks for law enforcement, signaling, and other dual-use missions.

Analysts say the systems could help China maintain a low-cost, persistent presence without crewed ships or aircraft.