Story perspectives

PLA Unveils Soldier-Controlled Drone Swarms for Warfare

1/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) of China says a single soldier can control over 200 drones for reconnaissance and strikes using autonomous algorithms.
Tests by the PLA's National University of Defence Technology showed the drones can operate in precise formations and communicate effectively.
Researchers demonstrated the drones' ability to switch between roles, including reconnaissance and distraction.
Xiang Xiaojia, a research fellow, says each drone uses intelligent algorithms for collaboration.

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Story summary

The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) of China says a single soldier can control over 200 drones for reconnaissance and strikes using autonomous algorithms.
Tests by the PLA's National University of Defence Technology showed the drones can operate in precise formations and communicate effectively.
Researchers demonstrated the drones' ability to switch between roles, including reconnaissance and distraction.
Xiang Xiaojia, a research fellow, says each drone uses intelligent algorithms for collaboration.