Underwater anti-mine technology and robot dogs take centre stage at Chinese defence show

The Chengdu Defence Technology Industry Expo showcases advanced equipment, including submarine-launched drones

China unveiled some of its most advanced military technology, including robot dogs and an AI-enabled underwater system that can neutralise mines, at a defence expo.

Autonomous underwater vehicles designed to be launched by submarine were one of the most noteworthy products that featured at the 2026 Chengdu Defence Technology Industry Expo in mid-April.

The vessels, which can be launched from 260mm or 533mm torpedo tubes, are mainly designed to conduct high-precision deep-ocean surveys and seabed mapping, and the larger variant can travel to depths of up to 3,000 metres (9,800 feet).

They can also be fitted with specialised modules to detect and neutralise underwater targets, according to state broadcaster CCTV.

“It is essentially an autonomous underwater robot with its own ‘brain’, which does not need any external software support or human escorts … a smart underwater scout at the disposal of its mother submarine,” the report said.

Its design also allows operators to add extra battery power for long-range patrols or advanced sensors for deep-sea reconnaissance. In addition, it can carry weapon modules to eliminate threats such as mines.

The show also featured tactical robotic dogs or wolves, which have been widely used by the People’s Liberation Army.