An Indonesian fisherman has reportedly recovered a suspected Chinese reconnaissance underwater drone in a strategically important shipping strait, raising fresh concerns over maritime surveillance in the region. The device is believed to have been developed by China Shipbuilding Industry Corporation.
According to local media reports, the fisherman promptly handed over the device to Indonesian authorities. The drone was then transported to a military facility in Mataram for further technical examination and assessment by defense experts.
Initial investigations revealed that the underwater drone did not carry any explosives. Instead, it was equipped with surveillance and research tools, suggesting its primary purpose was data collection rather than offensive operations.
Experts noted that the drone features multiple sensors, cables, and a top-mounted hatch containing equipment used for oceanographic and hydroacoustic research. Such devices are often deployed to monitor underwater conditions, map seabeds, and gather strategic maritime intelligence in key shipping routes.