Pentagon tests pack hunting with autonomous war robots
The Pentagon has been testing packs of autonomous ground vehicles in simulated combat situations.
In mid-October, the Pentagon conducted tests involving autonomous ground vehicles (UGVs) at Fort Knox’s St. Vith Range in Kentucky. Four UGVs worked together in simulated combat situations, scouring the terrain for enemy forces. The modular UGVs can be equipped with various tactical add-ons, though target engagement was under human control during the exercise.
The location was chosen as it resembles the European theater where the technology is requested. A technician explained that the UGV packs are modular platforms capable of carrying a wide range of payloads, including drones and rockets. During the demonstration, a single UGV scout was sent ahead to identify targets, followed by three others that provided cover and support.
A simulated rocket was fired at a target 300 yards away. Throughout the exercise, a human operator controlled any kinetic engagement, emphasizing that the autonomous UGVs only engaged when directed by a human. The Robotic Autonomy in Complex Environments with Resiliency (RACER) program, responsible for this exercise, combines vehicle design, algorithm technologies, super intelligence, and secure communications.
These UGVs can now autonomously complete tasks on the battlefield, moving as fast as a human driver. Tests aim to deploy these UGV packs for various missions, including logistics and more. Further tests featuring human soldiers are scheduled for December.
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