A yak-inspired robot has been developed by the Chinese military to navigate rough terrain.

The so-called “mechanical yak” is a quadruped robot that its makers call possibly the largest of its kind. The electric-powered quadruped bionic robot, which, as its name suggests, resembles a yak, can move forward and backward, turn, walk diagonally, sprint and jump, all thanks to its 12 sets of joint modules.

According to its manufacturer, the mechanical yak adapts to different and challenging terrain such as steps, trenches, cliffs, muddy roads, snowy fields, deserts and grasslands, among others.

Source: China Central Television

Additionally, the mechanical yak can carry loads up to 350 lbs and travel at speeds of up to 6.2 mph. As such, the Chinese military is eyeing the mechanical yak for use cases such as reconnaissance missions, wherein the robot collects battlefield data in challenging or risky combat zones.

In addition to being used for gathering tactical battlefield data, the researchers suggest that the robot can also be used to transport supplies such as munitions and food, and could even be equipped with weapons.