An army robot dog can be a lifesaver to troops on the battlefield. There are many options. Onyx Industries offers another option, the NAUT. The ABMS exercise was a joint effort between military and industrial teams. It took place at 30 locations in the country.
Spot
Spot, a military robot dog is not recommended for use in war. One, it is not secure and could cause injury. Boston Dynamics, who created Spot says that they have clear policies against weaponizing this dog. Spot may also be banned from military customers.
DARPA funded project to develop a robot for military use to carry equipment led to the creation of the robotic dog. BigDog began in 2003. Boston Dynamics released the very first video of Spot working in action in 2008.
BigDog
Boston Dynamics funded funding in 1995 to develop the military robot dog BigDog. It was 3 feet long and 2.5 ft tall. BigDog is powered with a one-cylinder motor for a go-kart. It can lift up to 340lbs and can climb rough terrain. It was originally designed to carry soldiers. Its engine noise led to the end of the project.
BigDog is operated by a human operator. The human control unit communicates with the robot using IP radios. The control unit is contained in a single vest. It has a radio with 900Mhz broadcast an antenna, steering controller interface and a mounted head mounted display. This allows the human operator to control BigDog and provide operational data. The robot can also recognize objects and follow them.
Vision 60
Robotics companies now have the ability to purchase military-grade robot dogs. Ghost Robotics Vision 60 models feature advanced video capabilities, 14 sensors and can perform autonomous missions. They can run up three hours on one charge. A remote-operated gun is also available to the robots. These capabilities allow dogs the ability to perform intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance missions simultaneously.
Ghost Robotics, a Philadelphia startup that specializes on legged robots, is developing the Vision 60 military robot-dog. It was used previously in U.S military service, helping to maintain a security perimeter at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada. It can be deployed with troops to assist them in combat.
Onyx Industries' NAUT
Onyx Industries has recently presented its new military robotic dog to the Special Operations Forces Industry Conference. The NAUT, according to the company can be used in support of military operations such raids and deep behind enemylines. It also has the ability to detect mines and other hazards.
The NAUT's weight is 0.9 kg, and it doesn't require a battery. The exterior is made from 7075-grade aluminum. The system can be connected wirelessly and is shock-resistant. It can travel up to 2.4km and has a semi-autonomous management. It can be used with any IP67-rated platform.