January 22, 2026
World
World
TOKYO, Jan 22 — Japan has halted the restart of the world’s largest nuclear power plant just hours after it began, though the reactor remains “stable,” the operator said.
BEIJING, Aug 6 — China has unveiled its latest weapon in military robotics: gun-equipped quadruped “robot wolves” engineered to stealthily approach enemies, execute precise strikes, and navigate rough terrain, according to state media.
State broadcaster CCTV reported on Wednesday that these upgraded robotic dogs are designed to replace soldiers in high-risk missions, reducing human casualties in combat zones.
China has made significant investments in robotics, an area where some analysts believe it may already be ahead of the United States. The Chinese military has increasingly showcased advanced weaponry — including robodogs — in joint exercises with countries like Cambodia.
In a newly released video, the latest version of the robot "wolves" is seen carrying rifles on their backs, advancing through a smoke-filled battlefield. Footage shows the agile machines climbing stairs, hauling gear, and engaging practice targets with precision.
While visually similar to earlier robodogs, the new “wolf” models boast enhanced reconnaissance and strike functions. They can move across various terrains and execute accurate attacks from up to 100 meters away, CCTV said.
During combat operations, the robots are intended to mimic a real wolf pack — coordinating roles among units. A designated “pack leader” gathers and transmits reconnaissance data, while others focus on combat or logistics tasks such as transporting ammunition and supplies.
These developments hint at a future battlefield dominated by automation and advanced robotics. According to Chong Ja Ian, an associate professor at the National University of Singapore, the deployment of such technology serves a dual purpose: boosting national pride and projecting strength to deter rivals. — AFP
