At the 17th International Defence Industry Fair (IDEF 2025) held in Istanbul, Türkiye unveiled a revolutionary leap in modern warfare with the debut of KOZ, a missile-armed robotic dog developed by Roketsan. This cutting-edge quadruped platform, equipped with laser-guided mini-missiles, marks a bold step in Türkiye’s quest for defense innovation and self-reliance. KOZ is not just a technological marvel—it’s a glimpse into the future of autonomous combat, blending artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and precision strike capabilities to transform battlefield tactics.
A New Breed of Combat Technology
KOZ, revealed for the first time at IDEF 2025, is a four-legged unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) designed to operate in high-risk environments where human presence is too dangerous. Engineered entirely with Turkish expertise, this robotic dog integrates four METE mini-rockets, each equipped with laser-guidance for pinpoint accuracy. Unlike traditional robotic systems limited to surveillance or small arms, KOZ’s advanced weaponry allows it to execute tactical strikes, making it a game-changer in urban combat, special operations, and reconnaissance missions.
The system’s electro-optical sensors enable real-time surveillance and target acquisition, even in challenging conditions. Its rugged mechanical design ensures exceptional mobility across diverse terrains, from rocky landscapes to dense urban settings. With an operational endurance of 2.5 hours, KOZ is built for sustained missions, offering both autonomous and remote-controlled functionality to adapt to dynamic battlefield needs.
Why KOZ Stands Out
KOZ is the world’s first quadruped robot armed with laser-guided missiles, setting it apart from other robotic platforms like Ghost Robotics’ Vision 60 or Chinese equivalents, which typically carry lighter weaponry. The integration of Roketsan’s METE missiles—already proven on drones and naval platforms—extends KOZ’s versatility across multiple domains. This leap in lethality transforms the role of ground robots from passive defense to active, precision-guided strike missions, even in environments where aerial drones face GPS jamming or other countermeasures.
Key features of KOZ include:
- Precision Strike Capability: Four METE mini-rockets with laser guidance for surgical strikes.
- Advanced Mobility: Four-legged design for stability and agility in rough or urban terrains.
- AI-Driven Autonomy: Capable of autonomous operation or remote control for maximum flexibility.
- Surveillance Powerhouse: Electro-optical systems for real-time reconnaissance and target tracking.
- Combat Endurance: 2.5 hours of operational time for extended missions.
Redefining Battlefield Dynamics
KOZ is more than a technological showcase; it’s a strategic asset designed to reshape modern warfare. Its compact size and missile armament make it ideal for special operations, urban combat, and forward reconnaissance, offering commanders a low-risk, high-impact solution. In contested environments where GPS signals may be disrupted, KOZ’s ground-based autonomy provides a critical edge, ensuring mission success without relying on vulnerable aerial systems.
On the geopolitical stage, KOZ enhances Türkiye’s defense autonomy and strengthens its position as a global leader in unmanned systems. With its export potential, this platform could attract international partners seeking versatile, cost-effective strike capabilities. KOZ aligns with Türkiye’s broader defense doctrine, emphasizing survivable, scalable, and unmanned systems to minimize risks to personnel while maximizing operational impact.
Türkiye’s Vision for the Future
The unveiling of KOZ at IDEF 2025 underscores Türkiye’s ambition to lead the global defense industry. By combining indigenous engineering with AI-driven innovation, Roketsan has positioned KOZ as a flagship of Türkiye’s growing expertise in autonomous weaponry. This platform builds on Roketsan’s legacy of developing missile-armed UGVs and AI-supported combat systems, signaling a deliberate shift toward multi-role, mobile, and autonomous solutions.
As global conflicts evolve, KOZ represents a bold step toward redefining battlefield tactics. Its ability to integrate precision strikes with robotic agility makes it a versatile tool for modern militaries, while its domestic development reinforces Türkiye’s push for self-sufficiency in defense manufacturing. With KOZ, Türkiye is not just keeping pace with the future of warfare—it’s actively shaping it.
A Global Spotlight at IDEF 2025
The debut of KOZ at IDEF 2025 captivated attendees, showcasing Türkiye’s technological prowess and strategic vision. As the world’s first missile-armed robotic dog, KOZ is more than a prototype—it’s a testament to Türkiye’s determination to innovate and lead in the defense sector. With its blend of lethality, autonomy, and adaptability, KOZ is poised to redefine how nations approach modern warfare, offering a glimpse into a future where robotic systems play a central role on the battlefield.
