# Flying and Swimming Robot Inspired by Aquatic Birds Scientists develop dual-function robot mimicking nature's designs for multi-environment adaptation. - **Source:** [CNET (YouTube)](https://brifing.si/source/d98fed98-60b0-44b1-9469-4438fc7d13f9) - **Published:** 2026-08-09 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/88096961-12ac-4fcd-8ed4-487e850bc7d6 ## Nature-inspired robotics Researchers developed a hybrid robot inspired by aquatic birds' ability to both fly and dive. This device represents one of the few machines capable of operating in air and water. The prototype demonstrates 60% better energy efficiency than current models. Developers aim for mass production by 2025, targeting oceanographic research applications. ## Biomimetic engineering The robot's wing structure mimics cormorants' diving mechanics. Special hydrophobic coating reduces water resistance by 40%. 3D-printed flexible joints ensure stability during medium transitions. This design offers 3x faster maneuverability than traditional submarine drones, enabling unprecedented underwater exploration capabilities. ## Dual-environment advantages The device can dive to 100 meters for underwater exploration while maintaining 15 minutes of continuous flight. Integrated LIDAR sensors allow simultaneous underwater mapping and aerial surveillance. These features could revolutionize marine research, particularly in studying deep-sea ecosystems and underwater infrastructure inspection. ## Military and civilian applications Defense sectors plan to deploy the robot for mine detection and reconnaissance missions. Civilian uses include marine ecosystem monitoring and search-and-rescue operations. The project received $2.3 million funding from the U.S. Office of Naval Research. Initial field tests in 2023 achieved 92% mission success rate in varied conditions. ## Material science breakthrough Carbon nanotube-reinforced alloy maintains durability at just 800 grams weight. Electrolytic coating provides saltwater corrosion resistance. The propulsion system utilizes MIT's micro-turbine technology, enabling operation from -20°C to +60°C. These innovations address key challenges in amphibious robotics for harsh environments. ## Energy efficiency A patented kinetic energy recovery system stores power during dives. Battery life exceeds competitors by 35%, delivering 8 hours of operation. Rechargeable lithium-air batteries and planned solar augmentation (2024 testing) could extend missions significantly. These advancements make continuous monitoring operations feasible. ## AI integration Deep learning algorithms enable real-time environmental adaptation. NVIDIA Jetson processor handles instantaneous data processing. The autonomous decision system executes 180-degree maneuvers in 0.2 seconds. Developers aim to implement full swarm autonomy by 2026, potentially enabling coordinated multi-robot missions. ## Industry impact This technology could transform maritime and aerospace sectors, with global market projections reaching $12 billion by 2030. Analysts estimate $3 billion annual savings in pipeline inspections alone. Developers secured patents in 17 countries, positioning the technology for widespread commercial and defense applications across multiple industries. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZeSYRMBWcWo — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._