The viral post stated: “China officially begins training robots in preparation for military service. The live-fire testing of the Chinese robot ‘Unitree’ (Yushu) looks as if it were generated by AI. This is fascinating; in the future, wars may no longer require humans.”
However, an analysis by Grok indicated that the video appears to be artificially generated.
“No, this video appears to be AI-generated or fabricated. Searches show no verified reports of Unitree humanoid robots being used in Chinese military live-fire tests in 2026. Real Unitree demonstrations have focused on civilian performances, such as appearances at the Spring Festival Gala. Past military testing has involved quadruped robots, not humanoid robot soldiers,” the Grok disclaimer said.
This is not the first time such claims have surfaced online.
Earlier, viral posts claimed that China had deployed AI-powered robots to patrol areas near the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Separately, China has announced trials of humanoid robots for non-combat roles such as crowd control and assistance at a major border crossing. Shenzhen-based UBTech Robotics signed a contract to supply humanoid robots for a pilot project near China’s border with Vietnam. At the centre of the trial is the Walker S2, an industrial-grade humanoid robot unveiled in July 2025. It is described as the world’s first humanoid robot with a self-replacing battery system, enabling extended autonomous operations—an important feature for logistics, customs, and border management.
China’s humanoid robot push
The latest viral video also comes amid China’s growing efforts to develop humanoid robots. Chinese company Unitree Robotics recently showcased humanoid robots performing martial arts alongside human performers during a televised broadcast, drawing global attention.
Other firms are also advancing similar technologies. MagicLab demonstrated humanoid robots dancing during the same broadcast, while Noetix Robotics showcased lifelike humanoids designed to resemble humans. Beijing-based Galbot presented robots capable of performing everyday tasks such as cracking walnuts, skewering sausages, and folding clothes.
China is aggressively investing in robotics to maintain its position as the world’s manufacturing hub amid rising labour costs and a shrinking workforce, according to a CNN report.
According to the International Federation of Robotics, China remains the world’s largest industrial robot market and accounted for more than half of all robot installations globally in 2024.
While humanoid robots are currently most visible in entertainment and demonstrations, they are also being tested in factories, logistics centres, and research labs, with dozens of companies working on their development, supported by significant government subsidies.
