IDF Begins Integrating Robots Into Ground Forces

Thursday, May 07, 2015 | Israel Today Staff

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Israel is already a world leader in the research, production and military integration of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Now, it is successfully integrating robots into its ground forces, as well.

At the International Ground Forces Conference held this week in Tel Aviv, Maj.-Gen. (res.) Eyal Ben Reuven revealed that just the week prior the IDF’s 7th Armored Brigade had become one of, if not the first ground force in history to train side-by-side with “advanced ground robotics.”

The general cautioned against getting too excited about robot armies taking the battlefield. “At this stage, robotics will not replace the human factor. …We see robotics as a supporting factor,” he said. “I do not expect to see battalions of military robots within a year. It will take time.”

At this point, the robots in question are referred to as an “advance guard,” and will be used to open corridors for attack in enemy lines. This is especially crucial in urban warfare, where booby-traps and hidden combatants have claimed the lives of many Israeli soldiers in the past.

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Thursday, May 7, 2015