Aalborg, Denmark – A team of engineering students has created a drone capable of seamlessly transitioning from flight to underwater swimming—a breakthrough that could revolutionize robotics for marine exploration, search-and-rescue missions, and military operations.
A Drone That Masters Air and Water
The four students—Andrei Copaci, Pawel Kowalczyk, Krzysztof Sierocki, and Mikolaj Dzwigalo—designed the drone as part of their bachelor’s thesis at Aalborg University. Their prototype uses variable-pitch propellers, with blades that adjust angle to optimize performance in both air and water.
In a demonstration video, the drone takes off, dives into a pool, maneuvers underwater, and then rockets back into the air—repeating the cycle effortlessly.
“We were surprised how seamlessly it transitions,” the team told Live Science.
How It Works
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Air Mode: Propeller blades tilt to maximize airflow for flight.
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Water Mode: Blades flatten to reduce drag and even generate reverse thrust for underwater agility.
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The students 3D-printed components and programmed custom software to control the drone’s mechanics.
Potential Real-World Uses
While still a prototype, the technology could be applied in:
✔ Search-and-rescue missions (locating drowning victims or submerged wreckage)
✔ Military reconnaissance (stealthy air-to-water surveillance)
✔ Marine inspections (checking ship hulls or underwater pipelines)
Not the First, But a Major Leap
Similar drones have been tested before—including a 2015 Rutgers University model and a 2023 Chinese prototype—but this student-built version demonstrates practical, cost-effective engineering that could accelerate real-world adoption.