On Tuesday, Taiwan's military revealed three models of robot patrol dogs that may be deployed on its islands in the contested South China Sea. This demonstration, held by the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology, highlighted Taiwan's ongoing efforts to modernize its military capabilities in response to perceived threats from China. The robot dogs, manufactured by Ghost Robotics, feature various configurations for reconnaissance, surveillance, and even armed operations, with one model equipped with a gun. Jen Kuo-kuang, deputy head of the institute's missile and rocket systems research division, noted the military's expressed need for such technology, particularly for patrolling beaches and coastlines, including the Nansha and Dongsha Islands. Taiwan's presence in the South China Sea includes Itu Aba in the Spratlys and the Pratas Islands, which are vital for regional security. Although Chinese forces typically avoid Itu Aba, Taiwan has reported an uptick in Chinese coast guard activities and drone incursions near the Pratas, underscoring the strategic significance of these islands.