China has presented the BG-5 Golden Dragon Fish, an underwater robot that mimics the movement of a real fish, marking a significant development in biomimetic robotics. Unveiled at the 2026 China International Fair for Trade in Services in Beijing, the robot was showcased by Boyagongdao Marine Technology Group and draws inspiration from the golden arowana. Unlike traditional underwater drones, the BG-5 propels itself through water using a flexible, multi-joint tail to replicate the undulating motion of swimming fish.
The BG-5 is equipped with onboard sensors that allow it to navigate without a pre-programmed route, autonomously adjusting its path by identifying obstacles in its environment. This feature enhances its utility in underwater settings where conditions may change unpredictably, and remote control may not be feasible for every movement. With dimensions of 640mm x 204mm x 90mm and a weight of around 3kg, the robot operates up to 5 meters deep and can reach a top speed of 0.6 meters per second.
The fish-inspired design of the BG-5 is not merely aesthetic but functional, as it seeks to replicate the efficiency of natural animal movements. By imitating the swimming patterns of fish, the robot can potentially operate in environments where conventional underwater vehicles face challenges. Its compact size makes it ideal for deployment in shallow or confined areas, offering accessibility in regions where larger unmanned underwater vehicles struggle to navigate.
Additionally, Boyagongdao has introduced the BG-5V model, featuring advanced capabilities such as path planning, task allocation, and coordination among multiple robots. This innovation opens up possibilities for underwater robot fleets to collaborate, dividing tasks and covering diverse areas during missions. The technology extends beyond autonomous swimming, hinting at a future where groups of small underwater robots can communicate and synchronize their actions for collective efficiency.
The development of biomimetic underwater robots like the BG-5 has piqued interest in defense circles due to Boyagongdao's involvement in defense-related projects. The company's collaboration on a national defense special project for an underwater detection platform and the creation of the ROBO-SHARK robot in partnership with a military unit have raised speculation about potential military applications. The BG-5's compact size, autonomous navigation, and fish-like propulsion make it suitable for shallow-water surveillance and reconnaissance, offering stealth and adaptability in environments where larger vehicles would be impractical.
