South Korea’s military is exploring a strategic partnership with Hyundai Motor to potentially deploy robotics to the front lines as Seoul accelerates investment in AI-powered, unmanned systems to tackle a deepening troop shortage.

The defence ministry said it was discussing cooperation with Hyundai as part of efforts to respond to changes in the battlefield environment and develop a “hi-tech, science-driven force”, though specific details have yet to be finalised.

The Korea Economic Daily first reported the news, citing unidentified military and industry officials. The report said that the army was considering machines for noncombat roles, including surveillance, reconnaissance and logistics.

Potential deployments included Boston Dynamics’ four-legged Spot, the four-wheeled MobED mobility droid and wearable platforms like the X-ble Shoulder exoskeleton, the report added.