Singapore is testing autonomous excavators and compactors in a pilot that could see robotic construction equipment deployed at selected worksites as early as 2028, as the industry seeks to address manpower constraints and improve productivity and safety.
The pilot, led by JTC Corporation and Kajima, is taking place at the Bulim autonomous yard in the Jurong Innovation District.
The machines perform assigned tasks independently while operators monitor and control them remotely from a nearby control room.
The first phase, which began in January and runs until early 2027, involves two excavators and two compactors. A second phase will introduce autonomous bulldozers and dump trucks to test how multiple machines can operate as a coordinated fleet.
If the trials are successful, JTC plans to deploy autonomous heavy construction equipment at suitable projects in the Jurong Innovation District from 2028.
Robots could halve operator manpower
JTC is targeting a 50 per cent reduction in operator manpower, with one operator potentially overseeing two machines remotely.
The pilot is also designed to improve construction productivity, with JTC targeting a 20 to 30 per cent increase in construction speed compared with conventional equipment.
Singapore's construction sector continues to face manpower constraints, with industry reports indicating a shortfall of nearly 15 per cent across various roles. JTC is also looking at at least 800ha of earthworks projects over the next five years.
JTC Assistant Chief Executive for Engineering and Operations Calvin Chung said adding manpower alone would not be a sustainable way to meet Singapore's future construction needs.
The autonomous equipment uses sensors and artificial intelligence to perform tasks within digitally defined boundaries. Operators monitor the machines remotely and can intervene when required.
Focus on worker safety and skills
The technology could also reduce workers' exposure to hazards associated with operating heavy machinery and working near moving equipment.
JTC is working with Singapore's Ministry of Manpower to develop operating guidelines and safeguards, including virtual fences, sensors to detect people and obstacles, and emergency-stop controls both on site and in the control room.
The shift to autonomous equipment could also create opportunities for workers to move into higher-skilled roles. JTC said many migrant workers have already received training to operate robotics used in construction, although suitability for such training will depend on individual skills and aptitude.
For the current pilot, two operators from local contractor Kok Tong Construction were trained in Japan by Kajima's operators.
Existing machines retrofitted with autonomous technology
Rather than replacing construction fleets, the project is retrofitting conventional equipment with autonomous technologies from multiple partners.
The excavators use technology from Zurich-based Gravis Robotics, while the compactors run on Kajima's A4CSEL automated construction system, marking its first deployment outside Japan.
Kajima is working with Kok Tong Construction and equipment provider Tractors Singapore on the retrofitting process.
JTC said it will continue working with public agencies, contractors, equipment providers, research institutions and technology companies to conduct further autonomous construction trials at the Bulim sandbox.