Türkiye unveils combat dog robot that can carry guided bullets

Defense conglomerate Roketsan unveiled a new combat robotic platform for the future battlefield at the International Defense Industry Exhibition 2025 (IDEF-2025).

Dubbed KOZ, the unmanned ground system looks like a robot dog and can carry precision strike weapons into high-risk areas. It operates autonomously or via remote control, with a two-hour endurance.

The KOZ robot dog, developed by Roketsan Corporation, can perform both attack and reconnaissance missions. Photo: Türker Akıncı

Its four-legged design helps it maintain balance and move over rough or uneven terrain. The platform is designed to perform dangerous missions such as surveillance, reconnaissance and assault, keeping soldiers away from direct danger.

“The growing military conflicts and security crises in our region in recent years have once again highlighted the importance of enhancing Turkey’s defense capabilities. As always, we remain committed to strengthening Turkey’s defense capabilities in every sense by expanding our cooperation,” said Roketsan Director General Murat İkinci.

Designed for use in a variety of terrains, the KOZ can operate continuously for up to 2.5 hours. The vehicle's ability to operate in both autonomous and remote modes is most notable for its ability to carry ammunition.

The robot dog is capable of carrying up to four miniature METE laser-guided missiles. The missiles have a range of 1,000 to 1,250 meters. Similar missiles, similar to those used on drones, could be used in a variety of attack missions.

KOZ can carry four different types of guided missiles or reconnaissance equipment. Photo: IDEF 25

KOZ is not only used in attack missions. Its maneuverability also allows it to be used in a variety of reconnaissance missions. It is also worth noting that these new unmanned robot dogs are planned to be used in high-risk missions and areas with limited mobility.

Türkiye already possesses a range of indigenously developed weapons, KOZ being just one part of Türkiye's ever-expanding portfolio of indigenous defense technologies.

The country, which has NATO's second-largest standing army, has allocated $25 billion to defense by 2024 and continues to ramp up investment in unmanned systems and the use of AI.

According to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, more than 80% of the country's defense systems are now produced domestically, generating more than $20 billion in revenue.

From autonomous ammunition to robotic vehicles like KOZ, the country is betting big on self-sufficiency. Between 2020 and 2024, Türkiye ranked 11th in global arms exports, accounting for 1.7% of total volume.