The war dogs showcasing how they apprehend an enemy. - Photo: bernama

JASIN: Fangs bared, with a sharp glint in their eyes and focused movements, the war dogs of the Wolf Wing from the Army Combat Training Centre (Pulada) delivered a performance that captured the attention of visitors at the 2025 Melaka Madani Rakyat Programme (PMR) on Friday (Oct 17).

The military demonstration by the only war dog unit in the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) showcased the extraordinary skills of the trained canines in chasing, capturing, and tracking targets at remarkable speed.

One by one, they exhibited energetic, darting manoeuvres, from obedient control and agility through obstacles to detecting simulated explosives and capturing enemies.

According to Pulada Wolf Wing assistant head Captain Duin Tat, the demonstration provided exposure to the public on the role and intensive training undertaken by the Wolf Wing in supporting military operations.

A war dog demonstrating its ability by jumping through a series of hoops. - Photo: Bernama

"In this demonstration, we want to show the public our capabilities, such as real obstacles like in operations... loops, hills and forests... those are the real obstacles that we practise," he told Bernama.

Duin said there were two types of dogs featured in the demonstration held at the Politeknik Merlimau, namely detection dogs and guard dogs, tasked with finding explosives and apprehending a target, respectively.

Eight dogs were brought to the 2025 Melaka PMR, but only six participated in the demonstration held throughout the three-day programme.

Among the breeds used are German Shepherd, Rottweiler, Bordeaux Collie, and Labrador, with each chosen based on a specific operational role.

Commenting further, Capt Duin, who is the team leader for the war dog demonstration at PMR, said all the dogs were sourced from the United Kingdom when they were under two years old and underwent six months of intensive training.

Although the intensive training takes six months, the dogs are only considered ready for deployment after completing advanced training at the detachment.

"Preparation for each demonstration takes two to three weeks, including logistics and control training. This ensures there is no miscommunication and makes the show more engaging," he said.

Capt Duin hoped that this demonstration could spark public interest, especially among the younger generation, in learning more about the military world and the unique capabilities of units such as the Pulada Wolf Wing with its four-legged warriors. – Bernama