China is deploying next-generation robot dogs equipped with powerful water cannons, stair-climbing legs, and real-time video systems to tackle dangerous fires and rescue missions.
These four-legged machines, built by Chinese robotics firms like Unitree and DEEP Robotics, are changing how emergency crews approach risky situations.
The robot dogs are already in the field, including recent operations in Hunan Province and cities like Qingdao, where local fire departments are adding them to their toolkits. They are designed to go where human firefighters can’t—through smoke, debris, and unstable ground.
These machines are not just built tough. They’re smart and fast. Each is equipped with a water cannon that can shoot water or foam as far as 60 meters. With flow rates of 40 liters per second and the ability to aim from 5 to 85 degrees, they can target flames from a safe distance. That makes them useful in everything from urban fires to wildfires.
To help rescue crews work smarter, the robots stream live video from the scene to command teams, letting them see what’s happening in real time. This helps teams make quicker decisions without putting more lives in danger. The robots also carry high-powered fans that can blow away heat and smoke in forest fires, cutting off the fire’s fuel source and giving crews more control.
Made from strong composite metals, the robot dogs can move through dust, heat, and tight spaces. They climb steps up to 40 centimeters high and are built to stay cool under extreme conditions. Their cooling systems and self-draining belts keep them working without long delays. Swappable waterproof batteries allow them to keep going without much downtime.
During recent training drills, robot dogs carried out real-life tasks—like scouting fire scenes, putting out flames, and checking for hidden hot spots after the fires were out. In one scenario, a robot used a shopping mall elevator to reach an underground fire and quickly scanned the area. This kind of ability means responders can avoid sending people into unknown danger zones until it’s safe.
In Qingdao, firefighters recently added two Unitree robot dogs to their rescue team. Officials there say these robots improve safety and speed, especially in places where traditional equipment can’t go.
As fire risks grow with denser cities and hotter climates, China is betting big on robotic tools to reduce harm and improve emergency response. The robot dogs are more than just high-tech helpers—they’re becoming a key part of China’s firefighting future.