AI-powered swarm intelligence enables synchronized flight of thousands of drones in record-breaking display.
HEFEI: China has once again demonstrated its technological capabilities by setting a new Guinness World Record with a massive drone light show in Hefei, where thousands of drones illuminated the night sky in a synchronized display.
The event, held in Anhui province, featured a total of 22,580 drones deployed simultaneously, surpassing previous records involving 11,000 and 15,000 drones. The demonstration was organized by EHang Egret, showcasing advanced coordination and control technologies.
The highlight of the event was the use of Swarm Intelligence, an artificial intelligence-based system that enables large numbers of drones to operate as a single, coordinated unit. This technology ensured precise movements, preventing collisions while creating complex aerial patterns.
During the show, the drones formed intricate three-dimensional shapes in the sky, including traditional Chinese lanterns, cityscapes, and dynamic visual patterns that captivated spectators. The sky over Hefei transformed into a vivid display of light and motion, reflecting both artistic creativity and engineering precision.
Officials said the success of the event highlights China’s growing leadership in drone technology and artificial intelligence applications. Despite minor technical issues that prevented a small number of drones from taking off, the overall performance was completed successfully and met the criteria for the new world record.
Note that such large-scale drone coordination has potential applications beyond entertainment, including disaster management, surveillance, and logistics.
The achievement reinforces China’s position as a key innovator in emerging technologies, with continued advancements expected in the field of autonomous systems and AI-driven coordination.

