The incredible footage suggests these drones could one day be used for search and rescue efforts or even put to sinister use: hunting humans.

Chinese scientists from Zhejiang University published a report and footage of ten lightweight drones maneuvering at speed through a forest. The technology behind the drones autonomously navigates the best flight path through high-tech sensors. 

Lead author Xin Zhou wrote in a paper published Wednesday, in the journal Science Robotics, that "multi-robot aerial systems are a symbol of future technology" and cited science fiction films, Prometheus (2012), Ender's Game (2013), Star Wars: Episode III (2005), and Blade Runner 2049 (2017), where drones or drone swarms were used, which ultimately "inspired" the research team.  

Here is the drone swarm navigating through the woods. Full video below.