Robot dogs may replace patrol dogs in South Korea's Air Force

The Air Force underlined the value of study, pointing out that patrol dogs presently face difficulties in controlling their aggression and the possibility of human mishaps.

The Air Force of South Korea announced on Monday that it is investigating the prospect of substituting four-legged robots or robotic dogs for patrol canines. This is because fewer military dog handlers are anticipated as a result of personnel reductions. In order to determine if robotic patrol dogs can successfully replace conventional breeds like shepherds and Labrador retrievers at significant air base installations without compromising the integrity of the patrol and guard tasks, the Air Force plans to launch a feasibility study.

The Air Force underlined the value of study, pointing out that patrol dogs now have difficulties performing their military tasks at air bases. These difficulties include the possibility of human mishaps as well as the difficulties in handling and restricting their hostility. Moreover, the Air Force anticipates a decline in the number of military dog handlers in line with the anticipated decline in active soldiers at military facilities.

South Korea's Ministry of Defense's 2022 Defense White Paper states that the country has a maximum of 500,000 active personnel, with 65,000 in the Air Force, a decrease from the 555,000 active soldiers in 2020. The Air Force suggests that the use of robotic dogs could change military organization at bases from one handler working with one dog to multiple handlers.