China has taken a significant step in automated border management by deploying humanoid robots at its international borders, marking a shift from experimental labs to real-world security operations.
Chinese robotics firm UBTech Robotics has secured a 264 million yuan (around USD 37 million) contract to deploy its Walker S2 humanoid robots at border crossings in Fangchenggang, along the China–Vietnam frontier. The deployment is scheduled to begin this month.
Robots to manage inspections and logistics
According to the company, the Walker S2 robots will assist in managing the flow of people, conducting inspections, and handling logistics at border points. These robots are expected to support human officers rather than replace them, with supervision remaining under human control, including remote operation where required.
The move comes amid growing interest in automation at high-risk and high-fatigue locations such as remote border crossings, where harsh weather, isolation, and round-the-clock monitoring place heavy demands on personnel.
Self-powered, round-the-clock operation
One of the Walker S2’s standout features is its self-replaceable battery system, allowing the robot to swap depleted batteries independently in just three minutes. This capability enables near-continuous operation without the need for traditional rest, shelter, or food, significantly reducing long-term operational costs.
Company officials say this makes the robots particularly suitable for border areas where access to infrastructure and manpower is limited.
Human-like design and capabilities
The Walker S2 humanoid robot stands 176 cm tall, weighs 70 kg, and walks at a speed of 2 metres per second, closely matching human proportions and movement. It features a flexible waist, ambidextrous hands capable of carrying up to 7.5 kg, and advanced sensors for delicate handling.
Equipped with microphones and speakers, the robot can interact verbally, while its body is constructed from aeronautical-grade aluminium alloy and composite materials, with 3D-printed components.
Part of a wider automation push
China has previously tested humanoid robots at airports and customs checkpoints. The border deployment signals a broader push towards integrating robots into environments with constantly changing conditions.
While the current pilot limits the robots to support roles at the China–Vietnam border, analysts believe greater autonomy could follow if trials prove successful. UBTech has already announced plans for mass production of its industrial humanoids, with strong order growth reported in 2025.
As nations explore automation in security and logistics, China’s experiment could shape how borders are managed in the years ahead.