The United States Marine Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC) is currently evaluating a new generation of robotic “dogs” developed by Ghost Robotics for potential military applications. These quadrupedal unmanned ground vehicles (Q-UGVs) are being tested for a range of missions, including reconnaissance and surveillance roles. However, MARSOC is also examining the possibility of integrating these robotic platforms with weapon systems from defense technology company Onyx Industries to enable remote engagement and fire support capabilities.
According to reports, MARSOC presently has two armed Q-UGVs undergoing field testing and evaluation. The weapon systems integrated onto these robotic dogs are based on Onyx’s SENTRY remote weapon station (RWS). This RWS features advanced AI-enabled digital imaging technology that can automatically detect, track and classify potential threats such as personnel, drones, or ground vehicles. While the system can identify and monitor targets, a remote human operator retains full control over firing decisions – the robots cannot autonomously engage targets on their own accord.
In a statement addressing the testing, MARSOC emphasized that weaponized payloads are just one of many potential use cases being explored for the Q-UGV platforms. The command also clarified that comments from Onyx about the capabilities and intended deployment of these armed robotic dogs “should not be construed as a capability or a singular interest.” MARSOC further stressed its adherence to all established Department of Defense policies and directives concerning the development and use of autonomous weapon systems.
This evaluation and experimentation with armed robotic ground vehicles reflects a growing military interest in leveraging small unmanned systems for offensive and force protection roles. While armed unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have been remotely delivering lethal force under human command for over two decades, the increasing accessibility and low cost of advanced robotic quadrupeds – some costing as little as $1,600 – has opened up new possibilities for equipping unmanned ground vehicles with weapon payloads as well.
The notion of deploying armed robotic dogs into hostile environments, even with a human operator retaining firing control, raises significant ethical questions about the future implications and potential risks of increasingly autonomous weapon systems. There are also public concerns about whether such remote weaponized platforms could eventually be adopted for domestic use by civilian law enforcement agencies.
While the Q-UGV systems are still in relatively early phases of testing and evaluation, they hold the potential to provide valuable reconnaissance, security and fire support capabilities for military forces while reducing risks to human personnel in hazardous operating environments. However, as these armed robotic platforms continue to evolve and push technological boundaries, it will be crucial for military forces to proactively address ethical considerations and ensure strict compliance with established policies and international laws governing autonomy in weapon systems.