China's military accelerates humanoid robot research for future combat roles
Chinese military researchers are accelerating humanoid robot development for potential combat deployment, testing urban assault and infiltration scenarios.
China's defense establishment is intensifying research into military applications for humanoid robots, with plans for eventual wartime deployment, according to a review of over 100 procurement notices, academic papers, patents, and official publications.
Military institutions are testing humanoids against battlefield requirements, seeking robots and training technologies, and studying how machines might operate alongside troops. The work gained momentum in 2025 and 2026, focusing on robot perception, manipulation, and training data.
Chinese manufacturers accounted for roughly 95% of global humanoid shipments in 2025, giving the People's Liberation Army access to a rapidly expanding commercial industry while developing its own applications.
Urban assault scenarios
Researchers at the National University of Defense Technology's test center described an August 2025 scenario where six combat robots — humanoids, robot dogs, or unmanned vehicles — would split into two teams to clear an enemy-occupied building alongside ground troops. The study projected equipment availability within five to ten years but did not specify rules of engagement or weapons.
A July 2025 PLA Daily article argued humanoid missions could evolve "from supporting combat toward primary combat" and discussed authorization protocols for robots firing on human-verified targets.
Infiltration and procurement
In June 2025, NUDT held a competition simulating "infiltration behind enemy lines," requiring robots to enter areas, map them, and locate targets. Other exercises envisioned robots conducting identity checks and security patrols at military bases.
Procurement records show growing interest: a May 2025 tender sought a humanoid robot with installation and training; a later notice requested an "embodied humanoid robot intelligent perception and dexterous operation system." In June 2026, the PLA budgeted about $300,000 for a data collection system for humanoid perception and navigation.
Global context
China is not alone in exploring humanoid warfare. The U.S. Army launched a competition for "militarized humanoid capabilities" with potential roles in reconnaissance, obstacle clearing, and urban operations. However, the U.S. robotics industry trails China significantly in legged machine development.
No evidence suggests China has deployed an armed humanoid with an operational unit. Experts note robots remain energy-intensive and unreliable outside controlled demonstrations, with battlefield unpredictability posing significant challenges.