Ukraine may soon send robot-dogs to their frontlines to replace soldiers in dangerous missions, such as spying on Russian trenches or detecting landmines.
During the demonstration at an undisclosed location in Ukraine a metal dog-like robot named "BAD One" stood up, crouched, ran and jumped according to commands given by the operator.
According to their creators, these robots could become an invaluable frontline ally for the Ukrainian military, which lacks the manpower to fight off the Russian invasion.
Low to the ground and therefore difficult to detect, the robot dogs can use thermographic imaging to scan enemy trenches or inside buildings in combat zones.
"We have surveillance soldiers who are sent on reconnaissance missions, (they) are usually very well-trained people, very experienced people (and) always face risks," said the operator, who gave his name as Yuri, as he demonstrated the robot to reporters from the AFP news agency.
"This dog limits the risk to soldiers and increases operational capabilities. This is the main function of a dog," said the operator, who works for a British company that supplies military equipment.
A more advanced model, called BAD Two, could not be shown for security reasons.
The battery life of the device used in the demonstration is approximately two hours.
The robot dog can be useful for detecting mines or improvised explosive devices, and can also be used to carry up to seven kilograms of ammunition or medicine to battlefield hotspots.
"I can't say how many of them we deployed in Ukraine," said Yuri. "However, it will have a significant impact on operations and will increase the safety of soldiers."
He said that if the robot dogs ever fall into Russian hands, a special switch allows the operator to delete all their data.
Editor Rūta Androshiūnaitė
