China unveils world's first five-meter robotic whale shark

Tengrinews.kz – Chinese company Shenyang Aerospace Xinguang Group has unveiled the world’s first intelligent robotic whale shark, marking a breakthrough in marine technology, reports Tengri Life, citing CGTN.
This nearly five-meter, 350-kilogram bionic marvel replicates the movements of a real whale shark with incredible precision, including swimming, turning, diving, and even mouth movements.

"This is the largest bionic fish we have developed so far. The whale shark features seven articulated joints, each requiring complex calculations, connectivity, and sensory technology," said Gao Chao, one of the company's designers.

The robotic whale shark offers features like wireless remote control, programmed swimming, and multi-joint bionic drive, achieving speeds of up to 0.7 meters per second and diving up to 20 meters.
Equipped with optical cameras, various sensors, and systems, the robot can perform tasks such as water quality monitoring, underwater mapping, and special missions.

"Unlike traditional underwater robots using propellers, this bionic whale shark has significant advantages. Its closed design prevents water pollution, its streamlined body minimizes entanglement in obstacles, and it reduces harm to marine life," explained company representative Fan Xuelin.

As humanity explores deeper into the oceans, underwater robots are becoming essential tools for research and development.