China tests armed robotic dogs near Russian border

The People's Liberation Army of China (PLA) has conducted training using four-legged combat robots equipped with automatic weapons, Defense Blog reports, citing the Chinese military television channel CCTV-7.

Units of the PLA Army's 76th Group reportedly participated in the exercise along with robot dogs armed with automatic rifles. The robots operated alongside infantry units, providing cover and firing at simulated targets. They demonstrated their ability to navigate rough terrain, avoid obstacles, and maintain communication with operators at a distance.

The Chinese military says the vehicles are designed for reconnaissance, suppression of enemy positions, and close combat support. Small tactical drones have been used alongside the robots to relay intelligence to ground forces.

The robot tests took place in a mountainous area in the north of the country, near the Russian border, but the exact locations are not disclosed.

Chinese analysts note that the integration of ground robots and drones may indicate a change in China's military doctrine towards increasing combat effectiveness in conflict zones.

China's active testing of new technologies takes place against the backdrop of similar initiatives by the armies of the United States, Russia, and other countries.