China has officially deployed humanoid robots at its border crossings, marking a significant advancement in automated surveillance and logistics operations.
China has taken a decisive step toward automating border management by deploying humanoid robots for continuous surveillance, inspections, and logistics at its border crossings. This initiative, which highlights the rapid integration of artificial intelligence and robotics into state infrastructure, involves a contract worth 264 million yuan (approximately $37 million) awarded to UBTech Robotics. The rollout of these robots is scheduled to commence in December at border checkpoints in Fangchenggang, located in the Guangxi region adjacent to Vietnam.
According to UBTech, the humanoid robots will manage the “flow of personnel,” assist with inspections, and handle logistics operations at border facilities. Initially, these robots will perform support tasks under human supervision. However, officials and industry observers note that this deployment signifies a major shift toward continuous, automated border operations.
“Humanoid robots allow for persistent operation in complex and remote environments,” the company stated. “They can reduce human workload while improving efficiency and consistency in high-demand areas such as border crossings.”
The introduction of humanoid robots patrolling borders may seem like a concept from science fiction, but it is becoming a reality in China. Unlike human guards, robots do not require rest, shelter, or food—factors that are critical at remote border posts where logistics can be challenging. The Walker S2, the model being deployed, is equipped with a self-replaceable battery system that allows it to swap out depleted batteries independently in about three minutes, facilitating near-continuous operation.
This capability significantly lowers long-term operational costs. “Energy autonomy changes the entire maintenance model,” noted one robotics industry analyst. “Instead of constant supervision, you move toward planned maintenance cycles, which is far more efficient for large-scale deployments.”
For the time being, UBTech states that the robots will focus on support and inspection-related duties at the China-Vietnam border, with human operators retaining decision-making authority, often through remote control systems.
China’s exploration of robotic technology in border and customs management is not entirely new. Humanoid robots have previously been deployed at customs checkpoints and airports across the country, assisting travelers and monitoring facilities. However, the Fangchenggang deployment is notable for its scale and permanence, as well as the transition to a 24/7 robotic presence in an active border environment.
This expansion has also increased demand for vendor-independent fleet management software, which can handle programming, teleoperation, and compliance reporting across various robot models. Such systems enable human supervisors to oversee multiple robots simultaneously, even from distant command centers.
“Safety checks can now be carried out more clearly, with humans in charge—even if that control is remote,” UBTech stated.
The Walker S2 humanoid robot is designed to closely mimic human proportions and movement, making it particularly suited for environments built for people. Standing at 176 centimeters tall and weighing 70 kilograms, it can walk at speeds of up to 2 meters per second, roughly equivalent to a brisk human pace.
Its design features a flexible waist with rotation and angle ranges similar to a human’s, ambidextrous hands capable of carrying up to 7.5 kilograms, and high-precision sensors in each hand for delicate tasks. Additionally, the robot is equipped with microphones and speakers, allowing for basic verbal interactions.
Constructed from composite materials and aeronautical-grade aluminum alloy, with a 3D-printed main casing, the Walker S2 is engineered for durability in demanding environments. UBTech emphasizes that the robot’s humanoid form allows it to operate existing infrastructure—such as doors, tools, and checkpoints—without necessitating major redesigns.
While the Fangchenggang deployment is officially described as a pilot program, UBTech’s ambitions extend beyond the border. In a recent press release, the company announced plans to begin mass production and large-scale shipping of its industrial humanoid robots, citing a surge in orders throughout 2025.
“This is a strong signal that humanoid robots are moving from experimental showcases to real-world applications,” the company stated. Shareholders appear to agree, as UBTech has framed the project as a milestone in the commercialization of humanoid robotics.
Industry experts suggest that border crossings are a logical testing ground for robotic technology. “Borders are dynamic, noisy, exposed to weather, and require constant vigilance,” said one robotics researcher. “They are exactly the kind of environment where robots can complement or gradually replace human labor.”
For now, China insists that humans remain in control, with robots serving as force multipliers rather than autonomous enforcers. However, analysts suggest that as AI decision-making capabilities improve, humanoid robots may be entrusted with increasingly independent responsibilities.
The Fangchenggang deployment underscores a broader trend: nations are beginning to “hire” machines for roles once thought inseparable from human judgment. Whether in logistics, surveillance, or security, humanoid robots are steadily transitioning from novelty to necessity.
As one observer remarked, “What we’re seeing at China’s borders today may soon become standard practice elsewhere—a future where the first line of contact is no longer human, but humanoid,” according to Global Net News.