Robot patrol dogs could be coming to Taiwan’s South China Sea islands

Taiwan's top weapons development institute showcased three robot patrol dogs on Tuesday, which could potentially be deployed on the island's South China Sea territories. The military-owned National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology demonstrated models built by U.S. firm Ghost Robotics, integrating their own technology for reconnaissance, surveillance, and even firepower, with one robot equipped with a gun.

Jen Kuo-kuang, deputy head of the institute's missile and rocket systems research division, stated that the military has expressed a need for such equipment, particularly for patrols and inspections on islands like Nansha and Dongsha. These islands are strategically important and are currently defended by Taiwan's coast guard.

Taiwan, which China claims as its own, is actively modernizing its military to deter Beijing. Drones have become a significant focus for the defense ministry. The deployment of robot dogs would represent another step in this modernization effort, enhancing surveillance and defense capabilities in the disputed South China Sea region, where Taiwan has reported increased Chinese patrols and drone activity near its controlled islands.

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In fact, the marines believe that on beaches and the coastline, including for the coast guard in Nansha and Dongsha for patrols and inspection, there is a pressing need.