# Scientists Develop Hybrid Robot That Can Both Fly and Swim Breakthrough biomimetic technology bridges aerial and aquatic mobility in robotics. - **Source:** [CNET (YouTube)](https://brifing.si/source/d98fed98-60b0-44b1-9469-4438fc7d13f9) - **Published:** 2026-08-10 - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/8d7a4223-5b5d-4840-80ed-c1b866c494f4 ## Nature-Inspired Robotic Innovation Researchers have created a hybrid robot capable of both flying and swimming underwater. The design mimics avian locomotion through biomimetic engineering. The prototype effectively utilizes flapping-wing mechanisms in aquatic environments. This system stands out with its seamless transition capability between different mediums. ## Technology Background The project results from three years of research at a U.S. university robotics lab. The team previously worked separately on aerial and aquatic robots. The new design combines both mobility modes in a single platform. Weighing under 200 grams, the robot can operate continuously for up to 30 minutes. ## Engineering Challenges Developing a single mechanism efficient in both air and water posed significant difficulties. Special composite materials were engineered for dual-environment durability. A novel battery configuration was developed for energy efficiency. Control systems were programmed to automatically detect environmental transitions. ## Potential Applications This technology could revolutionize search-and-rescue operations. The robots would excel in complex disaster scenarios like floods. They could streamline data collection in marine and atmospheric research. Military applications include advanced reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities. ## Industry Comparisons MIT's 2022 underwater drones were limited to aquatic environments. Stanford's flying robots last year incorporated terrestrial movement. This hybrid design represents the first platform combining aerial and aquatic mobility. Industry experts highlight the future potential of multi-environment robots. ## Commercial Use Cases Mature technology could inspect underwater oil pipelines. It may enhance monitoring efficiency for aquaculture operations. Coastal security could benefit from border surveillance applications. The tourism industry could leverage new aerial and underwater filming capabilities. ## Future Development Roadmap The team focuses on miniaturization and extended autonomous operation. Enhanced sensor systems will enable more complex missions. A commercial version is targeted for 2025 release. Private sector investment discussions are currently underway. ## New Era in Robotics This breakthrough marks a significant milestone in multi-environment robotics. It expands potential applications for unmanned systems. The design pushes boundaries of bio-inspired engineering. Experts predict widespread adoption of similar hybrid robots within the next decade. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.youtube.com/shorts/2YIbETojY28 — --- _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._