China’s military is accelerating research into the use of humanoid robots on the battlefield. The systems are being considered for reconnaissance, urban operations and missions behind enemy positions.
According to Reuters, China’s military is actively exploring the potential use of humanoid robots in combat operations. An analysis of more than 100 documents covering military procurement, research, patents and defense companies’ developments shows that work in this field accelerated significantly in 2025 and 2026.
The main areas in which the robots could be used include:
- urban combat operations;
- reconnaissance and target detection;
- operations behind enemy lines;
- cooperation with ground forces;
- remote control of robotic systems.
Under one Chinese military scenario, six robotic systems would operate alongside two assault teams, clearing buildings floor by floor.
However, there is no evidence that armed humanoid robots have already been deployed as part of PLA combat units. Reuters found no evidence confirming such a deployment.
China is also developing technologies for robot perception, manipulation and training. Some projects involve remote human control, which could reduce the level of autonomy required from the machines.
At the same time, experts say current humanoid robots remain expensive, energy-intensive and insufficiently reliable for real battlefield conditions. However, further technological advances could allow them to become part of military systems within the next 5–10 years.
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