The US Army has unveiled the Ghost Robotics Vision 60 robots armed with carbines to enhance troop protection from drones. These robots, known as Robosobaki, are currently taking part in Operation Hard Kill conducted at Fort Drum in New York. The main objective of the ongoing exercises is to establish Fort Drum as a premier center for countering unmanned aerial vehicles.
The Vision 60 robot is outfitted with an AR-15/M16 type carbine mounted on its front. The weapon features an electro-optical guidance system complete with infrared and thermal imaging modes, a laser target designator, and a video camera. These robots are operated using tablet devices for precision control.
When engaging drones, these robots can access hard-to-reach locations where humans may struggle, providing superior surveillance and extending the firing range. This capability allows them to engage enemy drones from a covered position, making them ideal for reconnaissance and local defense in densely built urban environments.
However, hobby robots are just one aspect of the defense against drones, with the US Army and Marine Corps collaborating to develop a comprehensive layered defense system. The ongoing exercises also showcase other autonomous systems like the Containerized Weapon System (CWS) armed with laser missiles and the Rheinmetall Mission Master equipped with miniguns.
Additionally, Vision 60 robots are being tested by the Marine Corps with anti-tank missiles, demonstrating their versatility beyond just countering drones. It is worth noting that the US Army currently employs various types of unmanned robots for perimeter patrols at military bases.