Top 5 Most Advanced Military Robots till Date | Fortune Business Insights

Military robots perform lethal combat duties, explosive disarmament, fire support, logistics support, reconnaissance, and other such combat roles. Swift technological advancements in modern warfare activities have propelled the demand for robots to optimize operational efficiency and minimize personnel risk during battlefield management. The rising border security and surveillance issues amongst several countries have amplified the procurement of next-generation robots. Incorporating advanced technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), real-time data monitoring, and Artificial Intelligence (AI), is transforming modern warfare dynamics. Moreover, companies are developing miniature or small robots that transmit videos and images of target enemy bases. These above-mentioned factors magnify the demand for military robots. According to a report published by Fortune Business Insights^TM, the global military robots market size is anticipated to hit USD 25.66 billion by 2027. 

COVID-19 Pandemic Inflicts Short-term Negative Growth

The dynamics of the defense sector have been significantly altered due to swift spread of the coronavirus pandemic. Unanticipated disruptions in the supply chain networks affected long-term contracts and raw material procurements. However, continued efforts of major market players, including Northrop Grumman Corporation, BAE Systems PLC, and Raytheon Technologies to bolster their supply chain strategies are invigorating the demand for military robots. Hence, the short-term negative growth inflicted by the pandemic is likely to recede in the coming years.

Following are the Top 5 Most Advanced Military Robots till Date

1. AVATAR III

Designed by RoboteX, this multi-purpose ground robot can be used for Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT), Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD), security, and tactical situations. The rugged and easy-to-use tactical robot enhances first-responders and law enforcement capabilities by allowing them to quickly and safely inspect dangerous situations. The customizable base robotic platform comes with plug-and-play payload bays, enabling users to assemble the robot as per requirements.

2. GLADIATOR 

The small tank-like unmanned ground vehicle was developed to support the Marine Corps in conducting Ship-to-Object Maneuver (STOM) missions. The small-medium-sized robotic system is designed to eliminate threats and minimize risks to the Marines during conflicts. It can perform breaching, assault, reconnaissance, and surveillance missions under its basic technical configuration.

3. RiSE 

Designed and developed in collaboration by Boston Robotics, Lewis Clark & University, U.C. Berkeley, Carnegie Mellon University, and Stanford University, this insect resembling robot uses microclawed feet to climb trees, fences, walls, and other textured surfaces. DARPA Biodynotics Program funds the project. The RiSE project is aimed to offer bioinspired climbing robots capable of climbing on vertical surfaces and walking on land.

4. DOGO

The lightweight tactical combat robot comes armed with a 9 mm Glock pistol and is compatible with small pistols, including Sig Sauer P320SC and Glock 26. It comes with five selectable real-time channels, eight color video cameras, an integrated laser designator, and much more. DOGO is developed to serve as a watchdog for soldiers on real-time battlefields. It can be used for ISR and target detection, tunnels and underground warfare, close-quarter combat, hostage rescue, anti-terror, fata funnel clearance, and other applications.

5. Guardbot

This amphibious surveillance robot is designed to tread any terrain, including dirt, sand, and snow. Guardbot can also swim and comes with a battery life of up to 25 hours. The robot comes equipped with GPS, microphones, and two surveillance cameras. The robot can be remotely controlled using satellites. The miniature version of Guardbot can also be used to search underneath vehicles at security checkpoints.

Rising International Conflicts Will Amplify Next-gen Robots Procurement

The dynamically evolving warfare situations and rising technological developments surge the demand for military robots. Soaring investments in military programs by governments of various nations are expected to fuel the demand for military robots in the coming years. Moreover, the escalating border security and surveillance issues amongst several countries are anticipated to amplify the procurement of next-generation military robots.