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Skyborne Technologies, an Australian defense company, has secured a $6.5 million contract with the US Department of Defense to supply its armed quadruped robot named “Kodiak.” This marks a new milestone in the integration of robotic systems within the US military forces.

The agreement entails the delivery of 14 Kodiak platforms, along with 28 weapon modules, as well as two years of operational support and training for American military personnel and their allies. The full deployment is expected in the second half of 2026.

Kodiak, designed for tactical missions, is a remote-controlled land robot capable of operating in complex terrains such as urban areas, forests, or debris-filled environments. Its modular architecture allows it to carry various weapon systems, including 40mm cannons and 12-gauge caliber guns.

The robot also features target recognition software assisted by artificial intelligence, combining real-time detection, night vision, and ballistic calculations to enhance shooting accuracy.

According to Skyborne Technologies, the system can be operational in minutes. Compatible with autonomous and semi-autonomous modes, it allows operators to focus more on the mission than on piloting it.

Prior to its service entry, Kodiak successfully passed evaluations by the US Army Test and Evaluation Command (ATEC). This validation is seen by many as a significant approval for the use of armed land robots incorporating artificial intelligence functions.

Michael J. Trexler, a program manager within the US government, stated that live-fire exercises will be conducted starting in October with American tactical operations units.

These tests will assess the robot’s performance in conditions closely resembling real combat before a large-scale operational testing phase intended for the US Special Operations Command and several allied units.

The US military has been experimenting with various quadruped robots like Boston Dynamics’ Spot and Ghost Robotics’ Vision for reconnaissance, surveillance, and training purposes. However, Kodiak appears to be ahead with its security certifications, concrete operational contract, and short-term armament exercise planning.

Industry experts view this development as a sign of the accelerating robotization of military operations and the increasing role of artificial intelligence on future battlefields.