The US Army has made steps to create a "Phantom Menace" Army, which is an army that isn’t manned human beings. Robots are being developed that can perform tasks that humans cannot. These systems can be used in conjunction with other troops to protect soldiers and keep them safe.
Also, robotic systems can be used as force multipliers for future battlefields. They can place sensors in new positions, and present commanders new data. They are also able to clear landmines from war-torn zones. They still have a lot to do before they can join the Army ranks.
The Army currently has three major programs that test military robots. One of these is the Optionally Manned Fighting Vehicle, which replaces the Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle. Another option is the Tracked Robot 10 Ton, or TRX. It is built on technologies developed in the Small Multipurpose Equipment Transport program.
The two-armed robot could also be considered. This would enable the robot to fire either a non-lethal rubber bullet, or an extremely powerful "elephant killer", bullet.
Artificial intelligence is a promising project. A robot can learn how to do a task by viewing video streams and interacting with a human instructor. A robot might then be able perform the same task.
Robotics have become more realistic. But, they cannot replace humans in combat situations. AI-based bots are still learning tactics. Human arms only have seven degrees of freedom.
To train the robots, the Army has established an artificial intelligence system. The robots are trained using machine learning algorithms. The AI can only do this if there are enough training data. If it doesn't have enough, the system can fall back on human demonstrations.
The robots' ability react to changes in the environment is another key aspect of the artificial intelligence system. Robots can use a variety sensor types to adapt to changing conditions, including heat and chemical sensors. For example, if a chemical contaminant or heat source is detected, the robot will be able to adjust its own behavior to avoid a collision.
The Army relies on other systems, in addition to artificial intelligence, to ensure that robots work safely and effectively. These systems include a standard operational order, or SOA. It will provide guidance for humans when making decisions. Humans will be able to interpret and define the information that they receive through the SOA. So, for example, when a human is looking for a certain object, they can say, "Turn left" or "Turn right."
The artificial intelligence system teaches robots how to do specific tasks. It also helps them to be more respectful. The artificial intelligence system will also consider distance and proximity when a robot attempts avoid a collision.