China's strategic leap: Testing new ground drones with rocket launchers
In a significant demonstration of military innovation, China has showcased its new unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) armed with rocket launchers. The revelation came through footage broadcast on Chinese state television, highlighting the country’s progress in integrating advanced robotic systems into its military operations.
Innovative Military Exercises
The exercises, observed by Jesus Roman, an expert on Chinese military developments, involved an armored infantry squad from the 83rd Group Army, part of the Central Theater Command. This unit engaged in semi-urban assault drills, employing Type 08 (ZBL-08) infantry fighting vehicles in conjunction with the newly deployed ground drones.
The footage revealed UGVs equipped not only with rocket launchers but also with grenade-type weapons and, notably, loudspeakers. These drones moved in coordination with infantry units that dismounted from Type 08 vehicles, thereby providing crucial firepower and support in challenging terrains. This approach mirrors tactics used in complex urban warfare, emphasizing the role of technology in modern combat.
Advanced Control Systems
The drones were remotely controlled using first-person-view (FPV) goggles and handheld manipulators, a technology widely used in small unmanned aerial systems. This setup allowed Chinese operators to maneuver the robots from protected positions, effectively augmenting traditional armored and infantry formations. The exercise simulated an assault on fortified positions, with drones advancing ahead of infantry and armor to engage or suppress targets.
Strategic Implications
While the specific details of these new systems remain scarce, their inclusion in state-run broadcasts indicates Beijing’s intent to highlight advancements in robotic support for the People’s Liberation Army Ground Force (PLAGF). By integrating unmanned ground systems with the ZBL-08 infantry fighting vehicles, China is experimenting with manned-unmanned teaming, especially in dense terrains where mobility and firepower are crucial.
The 83rd Group Army, under the Central Theater Command, is tasked with preparing for complex, high-intensity scenarios, including semi-urban and defensive operations. The integration of these robotic vehicles underscores China’s focus on leveraging emerging technologies to enhance firepower and minimize risks to dismounted troops.
Conclusion
China’s testing of these new ground drones with rocket launchers represents a strategic leap in military capabilities. The exercises not only demonstrate technological prowess but also reflect a broader shift towards incorporating autonomous systems in military strategies. As global military dynamics evolve, China’s advancements in unmanned systems are likely to influence future combat scenarios, emphasizing the growing importance of robotics in warfare.
