Singapore's S$100 Million Bet: Humanoid Robots to Fight Fires, Rescue Lives

Singapore Invests S$100 Million in Humanoid Robots for Emergency Response Singapore is making a significant investment in the future of emergency response. A new S$100 million research center dedicated to developing humanoid robots is set to be operational next year. These robots, a project of the Home Team Science and Technology Agency (HTX), are designed to assist front-line personnel in firefighting and search and rescue missions, both locally and internationally. Initially, the robots will be controlled remotely, but the goal is for them to operate autonomously using AI by 2029. This technology has the potential to dramatically reduce risks to human responders in hazardous environments. As one HTX researcher noted, "These robots will be invaluable in situations too dangerous for humans, allowing us to save lives while minimizing risks to our personnel." The video accompanying this report provides a compelling visual demonstration of the robot's capabilities, showcasing its dexterity and potential for navigation in complex scenarios. The investment represents Singapore's commitment to innovation and its global leadership in technological advancements for public safety.