China Develops High-Tech Water Cannon to Assert Control in Maritime Disputes
• China has developed a new "smart" water cannon that uses AI and sensors for improved targeting accuracy, with potential implications for maritime disputes.
• China has aggressively employed water cannons against Philippine vessels in the South China Sea, causing damage and injuries in boundary-testing "gray zone" tactics.
• China has invested heavily in advancing water cannon technology, including developing a new 100+ meter range water cannon for export.
• The new AI-powered water cannon can maintain high accuracy even in rough, open waters, overcoming limitations of traditional water cannons.
• While non-lethal, China's persistent use of water cannons raises stability concerns, though the Philippines has avoided retaliation, pursuing diplomatic channels.