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America's Robot Army

Popular Mechanics explores the increasing level of reliance the US military has when it comes to robotic assistance. In the last few years, robot drones have reached an all-new level of sophistication, with several models already deployed in the field. Now, the next generation of robot helpers is nearing the end of its test phase. PM offers up a preview of what we could expect to see in the field within the next five years. "The MULE (Multifunction Utility/Logistics and Equipment) is roughly the size of a Humvee, but it has a trick worthy of monster truck rallies. Each of its six wheels is mounted on an articulated leg, allowing the robot to clamber up obstacles that other cars would simply bump against ... Barely a year old, the prototype is a product of the Army's Unmanned Ground Vehicle program, which began in 2001. It has yet to fire a single bullet or missile, or even be fitted with a weapon. Here at the test track it's loaded down with rucksacks and boxes, two squads' worth of equipment."

3 of 139 comments (clear)

  1. Personally, by iknownuttin · · Score: 2, Interesting
    I think we should spend the resources on space exploration and educating the young folks for those technical jobs instead of sending those kids over to die or get maimed for reasons that I don't find very compelling - (except for Afghanistan).

    And in the meantime, to fight our wars, I think we should send the folks who would benefit from the wars and the arm chair generals who are really quick to send other people's kids over to fight while justifying their haste with the attitude of "well they volunteered and they knew what they were getting into."

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    I prefer Flambe as apposed flamebait.
  2. Irony of ironies by VennData · · Score: 3, Interesting

    The thing designed to save US lives looks like a casket.

  3. What are the chances by XNormal · · Score: 2, Interesting

    What are the chances that someone working on this project played M.U.L.E. in the 80s?

    Enjoy the music of the game here. Ah, nostalgia...

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    Stop worrying about the risks of nuclear power and start worrying about the risks of not using nuclear power.