Kazakhstan engineers build robot to battle fires

ASTANA, Kazakhstan (MNTV) — Firefighters in northern Kazakhstan have received a new ally in their battle against industrial and large-scale fires: a domestically engineered firefighting robot. The smart device, developed by engineers at a local plant and donated to emergency services, marks the country’s first step into robotic firefighting technology.

According to a report by Silk Way TV, the robot has already been tested in real emergencies and is designed for operations too dangerous for human responders.

 Officials from the Ministry of Emergency Situations said it will be deployed in situations involving chemical explosions, fuel depots, or building collapses, where the risk to human life is especially high.

Remotely operated, the tracked machine can move at a speed of up to one meter per second, climb stairs, and navigate rubble. Its water system can extinguish flames from a distance of up to 65 meters, while its reinforced design allows it to withstand extreme heat and operate for eight consecutive hours without recharge.

“In cases of explosion risk or fires at hazardous industrial sites and flammable liquid storage facilities, we will deploy this robot. It’s a solid machine, fully equipped with everything we need,” said Adil Spayen, Deputy Head of the Emergency Directorate in North Kazakhstan.

The development highlights Kazakhstan’s push to modernize its disaster response systems as climate change fuels rising fire risks across Central Asia. In recent years, the country has witnessed devastating wildfires in its steppes and forests, prompting authorities to call for new technology and regional cooperation to strengthen fire management.

Officials say more machines could be added to the country’s emergency arsenal if trials prove successful, potentially transforming how Kazakhstan responds to disasters in both industrial and natural settings.