The South Korean Defense Development Agency announced that work on a prototype robot for tunnel work has been completed. According to Defense News reports, the ATE autonomous vehicle was developed in conjunction with the US Army Combat Capabilities Development Command.

The agency has produced a prototype robot together with Hanwha Defense. It is stated that the machine can independently explore underground tunnels without topographic information. The robot can record dangerous situations and create a three-dimensional map of the area.

It can also get AI-based software that will automatically perform reconnaissance missions. Thanks to ATE technology, the robot will be able to perform underground missions where there is no GPS signal.

An operator can control multiple jobs with a smartphone or tablet. During testing, the prototype robot managed to explore a 1.5 kilometer long cave. The car recognized dangerous objects and contaminated areas, and also made a map.

A spokesperson from the agency said, “After deployed in the Ala, the ATE robot will perform missions to ensure the safety of fighters and increase operational efficiency to a degree, during underground operations and urban combat operations.” Said.