The Indian Army is preparing for a major technological leap, with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) developing humanoid robots capable of simulating soldiers on the battlefield. These advanced robotic soldiers, designed to operate in dangerous missions and protect human lives, are expected to be deployed by 2027.
The project is being developed at the Research and Development Establishment (Engineers) laboratory in Pune.
🤖 Human-Like Features and Abilities
These humanoid robots will be designed with human-like movements and capabilities, enabling them to perform tasks traditionally carried out by soldiers. Key functions include:
Operating in difficult terrain such as forests, mountains, and deserts
Handling and defusing explosives & hazardous materials
Performing complex tasks like opening doors, crossing obstacles, and turning valves
Walking, balancing, grasping, and carrying objects
Equipped with lightweight arms (24 degrees of freedom) for safe handling
Fall and push recovery, allowing them to recover after impacts
🔬 Cutting-Edge Technology
The humanoid robots will come with:
Audio-visual perception system for seeing and hearing
SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) for real-time autonomous navigation
Advanced sensors & data fusion technology for situational awareness
Ability to function indoors and outdoors, day and night
🚀 Beyond Defence: Future Prospects
While the immediate focus is defense, DRDO envisions a much larger scope for this technology. Healthcare, space exploration, and manufacturing are among the key areas where humanoid robots could play a transformative role.
With drones, missiles, and now humanoid robots, India aims to redefine its defense strategy and establish itself as a global leader in military technology. By 2027, the Indian Army could be one of the first forces in the world to deploy robotic soldiers, making the nation’s borders more secure than ever before.
