These armed quadruped robots that the American army wants to send to the front – ZDNET

Australian defense company Skyborne Technologies has won a $6.5 million contract with the US Department of Defense for the supply of its armed quadruped robot called “Kodiak”. This marks a new stage in the integration of robotic systems within the American forces.

The agreement provides for the delivery of 14 Kodiak platforms, accompanied by 28 weapons modules, as well as two years of operational support and training intended for the American military and their allies. Full deployment is expected in the second half of 2026.

A military robot designed for difficult terrain

Designed for tactical missions, the Kodiak is a remote-controlled ground robot capable of operating in complex terrain such as destroyed urban areas, forests or environments cluttered with debris. Its modular architecture allows it to carry different weapon systems, including 40 mm and 12 caliber cannons.

The robot also includes target recognition software assisted by artificial intelligence. This combines real-time detection, night vision and ballistic calculations to improve shot accuracy.

According to Skyborne Technologies, the system can be up and running in minutes. Compatible with autonomous and semi-autonomous modes, it allows operators to concentrate more on the mission than on the piloting itself.

Live-fire tests planned for October

Before entering service, the Kodiak successfully passed U.S. Army Test and Evaluation Command (ATEC) evaluations. This validation is perceived by several observers as a major authorization for the use of armed ground robots integrating artificial intelligence functions.

Michael J. Trexler, program manager within the American government, indicated that live-fire exercises will be conducted starting in October with American tactical operations units.

These tests should make it possible to evaluate the robot’s performance in conditions close to real combat, before a phase of large-scale operational tests intended for the American special forces of the United States Special Operations Command and several allied units.

A new generation of military robot dogs

The American army is already testing several quadruped robots such as Spot from Boston Dynamics or Vision developed by Ghost Robotics. Until now, these platforms were mainly used for reconnaissance, surveillance or training.

The Kodiak, however, seems to be getting a head start thanks to obtaining safety certifications, signing a concrete operational contract and planning short-term armed exercises.

For industry experts, this development illustrates the acceleration of the robotization of military operations and the growing role of artificial intelligence on future battlefields.