Immigration and Customs Enforcement is exploring the purchase of Boston Dynamics Spot robot dogs to enhance officer safety during enforcement operations.

A Department of Homeland Security procurement forecast published last week outlined plans for a contract valued between $1 million and $2 million. The robots would provide remotely operated capabilities for inspection, situational awareness, and hazard assessment in environments that may pose risks to personnel.

The announcement specified that the technology supports public safety and law enforcement operations by allowing officers to assess dangerous, confined, unstable, or difficult-to-access areas before entering. It does not indicate the devices will be used to make arrests.

This move aligns with broader efforts to equip ICE personnel amid expanded deportation operations. The agency has received significant funding through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act passed in July 2025, which allocated $75 billion to support enforcement activities.

The planned acquisition follows a separate DHS decision to purchase electric shock gloves for officers. Similar robot dogs from Boston Dynamics have been deployed by other law enforcement agencies for standoffs, hostage situations, and bomb investigations.

Boston Dynamics has stated that its robots help keep people out of harm's way. The company sells the units for around $75,000 each, and they feature cameras, sensors, and the ability to navigate stairs and uneven terrain.

ICE expects to release a solicitation for the robots on September 4. The devices would supplement human officers rather than replace them in interior enforcement actions.