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In preparation for potential combat scenarios in North Korea’s extensive network of underground military tunnels, South Korean and U.S. troops are expanding their joint capabilities with the use of robotic dogs. The recent four-day joint military exercise, held in Paju, near the North Korean border, saw troops practicing combat operations focused on subterranean warfare, a growing concern due to North Korea’s vast, secretive underground infrastructure.
The training, which involved 370 soldiers from both countries, aimed to equip forces with the tools and strategies needed to navigate and neutralize threats in North Korea’s fortified underground shelters, command centers, and weapons depots. The use of robotic dogs, capable of carrying explosives and tools, allowed the forces to perform dangerous tasks with reduced risk to human life. These robots were also used for gathering real-time intelligence, making it easier to assess and secure tunnel systems before human troops entered.
According to The Korea Herald, Lt. Col. Jang Yun-Seong, a public affairs officer in the South Korean military, emphasized the importance of integrating robotic systems into high-risk operations. These uncrewed systems are seen as essential in enhancing battlefield safety and efficiency, especially in operations where human lives could be at significant risk. The recent war in Gaza highlighted the dangers of subterranean warfare, as Hamas utilized an extensive tunnel network to keep hostages, smuggle weapons, and shelter terrorists. This prompted concerns that North Korea could use similar tactics.
The drills, which were part of the annual Freedom Shield exercises, also included advanced drones and robots to locate tunnel entry points and assist in various combat scenarios, including tunnel decontamination and close-quarters engagements. The offered valuable insights into underground warfare tactics for both South Korean and U.S. forces.
These drills occur amid rising tensions on the Korean Peninsula, with North Korea responding to South Korea’s military exercises with missile launches and strong rhetoric against U.S. involvement in the region.
