Polish Navy removes robot video after security concerns

A promotional video released by the Polish Navy for Poland's Navy Day celebrations has ignited a debate over the presence of a Chinese-made humanoid robot on a military base. The robot, named 'Edward Warchocki,' was featured in footage filmed at the naval port in Świnoujście, home to the 8th Coastal Defense Flotilla.

Experts raised concerns about potential security risks, particularly regarding data collected by the robot's cameras and sensors. These worries echo previous decisions to restrict Chinese-made vehicles with advanced technology from military facilities due to similar data concerns. Following the backlash, the promotional video was removed from the Navy's social media profiles.

Commander Grzegorz Lewandowski, spokesperson for the Flotilla, addressed the criticism, asserting that restrictions on Chinese vehicles do not apply to this situation. He explained that the robot's presence was confined to a brief promotional recording, with its movement limited to a specific, pre-determined location according to a set script and timeframe. The robot did not operate autonomously, nor did it have free access to the base's infrastructure or restricted zones.

Lewandowski further assured that the filming location was chosen to prevent the capture of any protected information. The robot was delivered, activated only at the filming site under constant supervision, and then deactivated there after the recording concluded. He emphasized that the footage did not reveal any previously undisclosed infrastructure or equipment. The visible quay area had been publicly shown in official materials and during press conferences before, and is also visible from public waterfront areas in Świnoujście. The decision to include the robot was intended as an unconventional way to promote the upcoming event.