The Republic of Korea (ROK) announced on September 21 that it is preparing to develop highly sophisticated robots for battle field, which will make up for the defects of human soldiers.

The ROK defense, information and communications authorities have approved the joint program, which costs US$32.40 million. It is planned that the robot will be put into operation by 2011.

At a science ministers' conference, people had seen the initial design of the three robots. They look like Sphinx with no wings.

ROK Defense Ministry says that with six or eight wheels or legs, the robots can run on rugged road.

With weapon and sensor, they can carry out tasks in battle and can complete dangerous tasks such as mine clearance.