Chinese scientists have announced the creation of the world’s first AI-powered water cannon. The device, engineered by the Wuhan Marine Electric Propulsion Device Research Institute, incorporates advanced sensors and artificial intelligence to improve accuracy and functionality in challenging sea conditions.
This new water cannon is equipped with photoelectric cameras and motion sensors, enabling it to autonomously identify targets and adjust its trajectory and water pressure in real-time. Such capabilities allow it to operate effectively in rough seas, a significant enhancement over traditional models, which often struggle with accuracy during adverse conditions. During testing, this smart water cannon demonstrated an ability to maintain target precision with a minimal error margin, even in high winds and heavy waves.
The deployment of this technology is particularly relevant to the South China Sea, a region marked by ongoing territorial disputes and tensions involving China and several Southeast Asian nations. China’s assertive stance in this region has been a point of international contention, and the introduction of such advanced military technology could further complicate the geopolitical landscape.
From viber group:
Video of Chinese Coast Guard vessel using water canon on PH resupply ship to Ayungin Shoal pic.twitter.com/b8Or8iYEse— patricia🌿 (@pinaysipatricia) August 6, 2023
Critics of China’s maritime strategies have raised concerns about the potential for these water cannons to be used to strengthen China’s enforcement of its claims in disputed waters, particularly following instances where Chinese vessels have previously used water cannons against ships from other nations. This technological upgrade could potentially lead to more frequent use of water cannons in asserting maritime claims without escalating to lethal force, aligning with China’s “gray zone” tactics—actions that stop short of outright warfare but aim to assert dominance and control.
China is intensifying a dangerous game in the South China Sea in ways that risk drawing the U.S. into its fight with the Philippines.
In early March, two Chinese coast guard ships slammed a Philippine boat with high-pressure blasts of water cannon. pic.twitter.com/yrWsXBKwwI
— NoHoldsBarred (@AussieSteve64) April 10, 2024
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