Theoretically, since robots are automata with human-like functions, they should be able to replace humans in any task. However, due to technological limitations, the intelligence, responsiveness, and dexterity of robots, regardless of generation, are still far behind those of humans. Therefore, the large-scale application of robots in the military field still requires time. Currently, the most considered applications for military robots abroad include:
I. Used for directly carrying out combat missions
Replacing frontline soldiers with robots to reduce casualties and bloodshed is a top priority in robot development in countries like Russia and the United States. Among the robots currently under development are:
1. Fixed Defense Robot. This is a combat robot resembling a "rivet," equipped with a target detection system, various weapons, and a weapon control system. It is fixedly positioned at the front line of a defensive position, primarily performing defensive combat missions. When there is no enemy activity, the robot conceals itself in a semi-underground state; when the target detection system detects an enemy attack, it quickly emerges from the ground using a lifting device to engage the attacking enemy.
2. Odysseus Type I Walking Robot. Developed by Odysseus Corporation in the United States, this robot is primarily used for mobile warfare. Resembling an octopus, its round "head" houses a microcomputer and various sensors and detectors. Powered by batteries, it can autonomously recognize terrain, identify targets, and direct actions. Equipped with six legs, it moves by raising three legs while the other three remain on the ground, alternating their motion to propel itself forward. The legs are arthrolimb-like, allowing it to climb, descend slopes, overcome obstacles, and traverse swamps like a soldier; it can walk upright, move sideways like a crab, and even squat. While its head cannot tilt up or down, it can rotate forward, backward, left, and right, facilitating observation. This robot also boasts a load-bearing capacity exceeding human capabilities, capable of carrying 953 kg while stationary and 408 kg while moving. It is a basic soldier-type robot designed by the United States; once equipped with the necessary weapons and equipment, it can immediately become a "soldier" in a specific unit. To adapt to different combat environments and carry out combat missions, the United States also plans to further develop different models of Odysseus robots, such as tall, short, fat, and thin, based on this robot.
II. Used for reconnaissance and observation
Reconnaissance has always been a profession for the bravest, with a higher risk factor than other military operations. Robots, as the ideal agents for performing dangerous tasks, are naturally the most suitable candidates. Robots of this type currently under development include:
1. Tactical Reconnaissance Robot. It is attached to reconnaissance units and undertakes reconnaissance missions at the front or behind enemy lines. This robot is a small, humanoid intelligent robot equipped with infantry reconnaissance radar, or infrared, electromagnetic, optical, and acoustic sensors, as well as radio and fiber optic communication equipment. It can autonomously conduct observation and reconnaissance using its own mobility, and can also be airdropped or launched deep into enemy territory to select appropriate locations for reconnaissance, and can promptly report the reconnaissance results to relevant departments.
2. Nucleic Acid (NBC) Reconnaissance Robot. It is used to detect, identify, map, and sample nuclear contamination, chemical poisoning, and biological contamination. The US Army robot "Manny," mentioned earlier, is one such NBC reconnaissance robot.
3. Ground Observer/Target Designator Robot. This is a semi-autonomous observation robot equipped with cameras, night vision devices, laser designators, and alarms, positioned in easily observable locations. When a specific target is detected, the alarm alerts the user, and the robot fires a laser to seduce the target and guide a laser-homing weapon to attack. If exposed, it can use its own mobility to maneuver and find a new observation position.
Similar reconnaissance robots include "portable electronic reconnaissance robots", "Pave Rover-type unmanned reconnaissance aircraft", and "street scout robots".
III. Used for engineering support
The arduous tasks of constructing fortifications, building roads and bridges, and clearing and laying mines often overwhelm engineering troops. These are tasks where robots can best utilize their strengths. Robots under development include:
1. Multi-purpose robotic arm. It is a multi-functional robot similar to a flatbed cart, equipped with a robotic arm and a radio control and television feedback operating system. It can be used to transport pontoon bridges and earth and stone, and can also undertake logistical support tasks such as transporting oil drums and ammunition.
2. Mine-laying robot. This is an intelligent robot modeled after existing mine-laying machinery. It is equipped with both remote control and semi-autonomous control systems and can autonomously set up standard minefield layouts. When working, it can strictly follow the operator's mine-laying plan to dig pits, install fuses on mines, release safety devices, manage mines, fill soil, and automatically mark the boundaries of the minefield and draw mine location maps.
3. Mine-clearing robot. It is a robot equipped with a mine detector and a mine-disabling device, mainly used to assist attack teams in clearing and marking paths in various minefields.
4. Hekas Flying Thunder Robot. This is a small, missile-like intelligent robot, weighing just over 50 kilograms. Equipped with a small computer and magnetic and acoustic sensors, it can be deployed by aircraft or propelled by its own rockets. Upon approaching the target area, its depth-sensing equipment activates, automatically activating it into combat readiness. When a target is detected approaching, its small rockets ignite and launch to attack. Its attack radius is 500 to 1000 meters, and its speed can reach 100 kilometers per hour.
5. Smoke Screen Robot. Equipped with a remotely controlled smoke generator, it can autonomously move to a predetermined smoke-generating location, release smoke according to human commands, and return autonomously after completing its mission. This robot primarily assists infantry smoke-generating units.
6. Portable deception system robot. Equipped with automatically inflatable humanoid, vehicle, and artillery-like structures, it is primarily used for tactical deception. It can simulate a combat unit, emit corresponding sounds, and autonomously move to the required mission area to deceive the enemy.
IV. Used for command and control
The development of artificial intelligence technology has created conditions for the development of robots capable of "advising and strategizing." Robots under development include "staff robots," "battlefield situation analysis robots," and "combat plan execution analysis robots." These robots are generally equipped with a sophisticated "brain"—an advanced computer and a think tank. They are proficient in staff work, familiar with command procedures, possess strong analytical abilities, can quickly process various intelligence information during command, and transmit this information to the commander via a display for decision-making.
V. For logistical support
Logistics support is one of the earliest areas where robots were used. These robots include "vehicle rescue robots," "combat transport robots," "automatic refueling robots," and "medical assistant robots," which mainly perform logistics support tasks such as transportation, loading and unloading, refueling, repairing technical equipment, and rescuing the wounded and sick under harsh conditions such as mud and pollution.
VI. Used for military scientific research and teaching
Robots have a long history of serving as research assistants and conducting simulated teaching, and have made outstanding contributions. The earliest lunar soil samples collected by humans and the recovery of satellites from space were all accomplished by robots. Today, there are many robots used in this field, including typical examples such as "space exploration robots," "spacecraft robotic arms," "radioactive environment work robots," "simulated teaching robots," and "shooting training robots."
