Singapore's Changi Airport Trials GIBSON Patrol Robot for Enhanced Security

SINGAPORE – The Singapore Police Force (SPF) has commenced a trial of a new autonomous robot named GIBSON at Changi Airport’s Terminal 4, aimed at enhancing security operations and increasing the mobility of airport police officers. The trial, which began in early July 2025, features the robot's dual functionality: it autonomously patrols the terminal and serves as a ride-hailing service for police personnel. Officers can summon the robot to their location using an internal application, facilitating quick travel across the expansive airport area.

GIBSON, named after Arthur Hugo Cecil Gibson, the inventor of the first motorized scooter, has been developed through a collaboration between the Home Team Science and Technology Agency (HTX) and the A*STAR Institute for Infocomm Research. The robot stands at chest height and is equipped with handlebars and a standing platform for riders. As SPF and HTX officials explained, the operational speed will be assessed throughout the trial, which aims to evaluate both the robot's patrol efficiency and response capabilities.

The robot employs advanced navigation technology, including cameras and 3D light detection, enabling it to maneuver safely within the airport environment while avoiding obstacles. In autonomous mode, GIBSON successfully detects pedestrians and alters its path accordingly. While publicly accessible, the device can only be operated by authorized personnel who access it with a personal key, ensuring that the robot is used appropriately.

Patrick Pang, an operations officer from the Airport Police Division, emphasized that the ride-hailing feature significantly improves incident response times and operational readiness by allowing officers to travel across large areas swiftly. This innovation reflects a growing trend in law enforcement towards integrating robotic technology for enhanced operational efficiency. Mr. Seah Qi Yan, a ground systems engineer at HTX, noted that GIBSON represents a significant advancement from previous models that only conducted autonomous patrols, stating, "We hope to create more integrated robotic systems that respond dynamically to both environmental cues and input from Home Team officers."

The introduction of GIBSON at Changi Airport is part of a broader initiative by the Singapore Police to leverage technology for improved public safety. In 2023, the police deployed similar robots for autonomous patrols at various locations, indicating a commitment to integrating advanced technologies in security operations. As cities worldwide increasingly adopt robotic solutions for public safety, Changi Airport's trial serves as a pilot for future deployments that could revolutionize airport security and operational protocols.

Looking forward, the results of this trial may set the stage for further implementation of GIBSON and similar technologies within Singapore's public safety framework, potentially influencing how security personnel operate in high-traffic environments worldwide. The final outcome of the trial, including its duration and the specific areas of deployment, is yet to be disclosed. However, the preliminary feedback from the trials could guide future enhancements and adaptations of robotic technology in a variety of urban settings.