Patrols to missiles: Chinese robots showcase high-risk roles at Beijing show

A host of Chinese companies are showcasing how humanoid and quadruped robots could be deployed in aviation, security, and military-related operations at the 2026 World Robot Conference in Beijing. The five-day event features robots designed for tasks ranging from industrial site patrols and suspect restraint to assisting with aircraft operations. Other demonstrations highlight potential battlefield applications, including robots capable of loading missiles onto aircraft, underscoring the expanding interest in using robotic systems for high-risk and specialized missions. As part of the WRC, the second World Humanoid Robot Games is bringing together 2,056 machines from 16 countries to Beijing, featuring new competitions in long jump, weightlifting and table tennis. Robot takes flight China’s robotics industry is showcasing a growing range of machines at the 2026 WRC, with companies demonstrating applications that extend from factory automation and public services to aviation, security and specialized operations. The conference, which opened Wednesday, has attracted more than 300 exhibitors, highlighting the rapid expansion of China’s robotics sector. Among the more specialized systems on display is Fengxing-001, a humanoid robot developed by the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) for aviation-related applications. The company said the robot is being developed for intelligent manufacturing, aircraft maintenance and support, missile loading and aircraft operation, reports the Global Times (GT). The machine stands about 5.9 feet (1.8 meters) tall and weighs 176 pounds (80 kilograms). According to AVIC staff, two or three Fengxing-001 robots could perform a missile-loading task that would normally require four to six workers. The robot uses compact motors derived from aero-engine technology in its legs to improve its load-bearing capability. It combines electric and hydraulic actuation through an electro-hydraulic hybrid-drive system and uses aviation power-by-wire technology for high-output joint movements. According to AVIC, Fengxing-001 can jump 30 centimeters, jog at up to 3 kilometers per hour, walk while carrying 44 pounds (20 kilograms), and handle loads of up to 33 pounds (15 kilograms). The robot has been under development since 2024. AVIC is also testing the humanoid for aircraft operation. The company said it has completed simulated trials in which the robot operated an aircraft in response to instructions. According to experts, the approach could offer a cheaper way of converting older aircraft into unmanned platforms. Rather than making extensive changes to an aircraft’s wiring and onboard computers, a modified version of the humanoid, with its lower-body components removed, could cost about one-tenth as much. Robots expand security Security applications are another focus at the conference. China North Industries Group Corporation, NEXWISE and the China Electronics Technology Group Corporation’s 21st Research Institute are among the organizations displaying robotic dogs and other security systems. Equipped with cameras and autonomous movement capabilities, some of the robots can patrol large industrial facilities such as power plants and perform basic decision-making, potentially reducing the need for human patrols. NEXWISE demonstrated a robotic dog equipped with an electromagnetic net launcher designed to restrain targets from a distance. Company documents say the system can fire a restraining net from between 5 and 10 meters away, while a dual-shot version can launch two nets in succession, reports GT. The company said the electromagnetic system is quieter than conventional gunpowder-powered net launchers and can be integrated with robotic dogs and security personnel, with the robot identifying a target before the launcher is remotely operated and personnel handle the situation on site. Beyond these specialized applications, the conference reflects the broader commercialization of Chinese robotics. Unitree is showcasing humanoids known for dance and martial-arts demonstrations, while UBTECH’s Walker C1 targets service and public-facing environments. Deep Robotics’ quadrupeds are already used in search, inspection and emergency rescue operations. Other exhibitors are targeting logistics, manufacturing and healthcare. Galbot’s G1, for example, uses wheels, a lifting torso and two arms to restock shelves, retrieve medicines and move warehouse goods, while Fourier Intelligence’s GR-3 is designed for companionship, public services, education and eldercare, reports Reuters.Together, the demonstrations show how Chinese robotics firms are pushing beyond conventional automation toward machines designed to operate in increasingly complex and specialized environments.Get the latest in engineering, tech, space & science - delivered daily to your inbox.Jijo is an automotive and business journalist based in India. Armed with a BA in History (Honors) from St. Stephen's College, Delhi University, and a PG diploma in Journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Delhi, he has worked for news agencies, national newspapers, and automotive magazines. In his spare time, he likes to go off-roading, engage in political discourse, travel, and teach languages.