Chinese researchers have successfully developed the world’s first smart water cannon controlled by artificial intelligence (AI).
According to the South China Morning Post, these researchers have invented an AI-controlled smart water cannon, which enables them to hit targets with an accuracy margin of just 2 meters even in harsh weather conditions.
The smart water cannon was developed by researchers at the Wuhan Institute of Marine Electric Motor Research.
Chinese researchers confidently introduce the AI-controlled smart water cannon that could help Beijing gain an advantage in the South China Sea – (Photo: South China Morning Post)
The new device can automatically identify targets and adjust the power and trajectory of the water jet based on real-time measurements from an optical camera.
This smart water cannon is also equipped with sensors to record the ship’s rotation direction, which helps automatically modify the parameters of the water jet emitted.
Moreover, the new smart water cannon improves accuracy by 33 to 54% compared to conventional water cannons. In recent tests, it was able to hit targets on the water that were about 2 meters away, even under rough sea conditions with waves up to 4 meters high and strong winds.
Chinese researchers believe this is a breakthrough that elevates this “non-lethal weapon” to a new level. They also think this new smart tool could become a powerful assistant for China in gaining an advantage in the South China Sea region.
A water cannon is a device operated by high-pressure water pumps to create a strong, high-speed water jet.
A powerful water cannon can target objects up to 100 meters away, generating pressure exceeding 1.2 megapascals. To put this in perspective, this pressure is equivalent to an African elephant stepping on an adult man.
In addition to the smart water cannon, China has previously successfully developed aircraft carriers with electromagnetic launch systems, hypersonic anti-ship missiles, high-power electronic warfare systems, and several other advanced devices.
These maritime innovations from China are being announced amid escalating tensions in the South China Sea, particularly following recent incidents involving ship collisions and water cannon use in recent months.
China has unilaterally claimed sovereignty over nearly the entire South China Sea, despite opposition from several countries, including the Philippines and the United States.
