The increasing use of advanced and networked technologies on the battlefield is shaping the future of warfare, which is expected to center on human-machine teams in both the physical and virtual realms. The Military Robotic and Autonomous Systems (MRAS) strategy outlines how the army, air force, and navy aim to ethically leverage emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), autonomy, and robotics as they mature to gain an asymmetric advantage.
DevDroid, a premier Ukrainian defense company, has deployed the Droid TW 12.7, a robotic anti-drone system designed to counter the growing threat of drone warfare. This tracked, unmanned platform is equipped with a Browning 12.7 mm machine gun and can be remotely controlled via a tablet, allowing operators to engage aerial threats from a safe distance. The system has undergone rigorous testing in combat conditions and is now ready for deployment to military units. The developer envisions expanding this platform to create complexes for reconnaissance, strike missions, protection, patrolling, mine and obstacle clearance, and radiation and chemical reconnaissance.
The Droid TW 12.7 could effectively operate in teams, with a few patrol vehicles armed with machine guns supported by a larger vehicle equipped with sensors to provide enhanced situational awareness. For instance, a group of smaller vehicles with 40mm grenade launchers could independently patrol an airfield, potentially operating from trenches for protection. Command vehicles with excellent visibility could direct fire from these smaller vehicles, even if they lack a direct line of sight to the target. The 40mm grenade launchers, with a range of up to 2.5 km, could be fired from within trenches, concealing the firing signature. The command vehicle could coordinate the fire of multiple vehicles armed with 40mm grenade launchers and heavy-caliber machine guns to engage approaching enemy infantry groups at a distance of 2 km. Most importantly for the enemy planning an attack, they would be uncertain about the origin of the fire and whether the command vehicle is alone or supported by aerial drones.
When attacking a fire base, reconnaissance and observation are crucial to identify gun positions and plan the attack to neutralize heavy weapons early and avoid poorly defended areas. With robots equipped with heavy weapons, firepower can be dynamically deployed and directed to counter infantry or vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) attacks. A 30mm cannon could effectively stop most armored trucks, while an 82mm automatic mortar could serve as a direct-fire weapon capable of defeating most armored vehicles. The potential upgrade of recoilless rifle-type weapons into belt-fed versions mounted on robot vehicles is an intriguing possibility.
Another interesting aspect of the Droid TW 12.7 is its modular design, allowing for various configurations of batteries, electronics, and other systems. Internal armor could render the vehicle invulnerable to small arms fire, and multiple layers of armor could significantly increase its resistance to more powerful weapons.
Unlike traditional tanks, where critical components are concentrated in specific areas, a drone’s internal components could be distributed and protected by multiple layers of armor. This design could make the robot more resilient to damage, as individual components could be easily replaced in the field.
Well-defended enemy positions could be attacked by robot ground vehicles equipped with rockets and heavy machine guns, while airborne robots could target rear areas to disrupt supply lines or artillery support. Long-range sniper rifles could be deployed on nearby hills to engage targets within the enemy complex. Additionally, infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) could provide direct fire support with 30mm, 57mm, and 100mm cannons, as well as various missiles. Ground-based robots could be equipped with rocket pods for additional firepower, including smoke and illumination rockets.
To ensure the safe and ethical use of autonomous weapon systems, robust failsafe mechanisms must be implemented to prevent tampering or misuse. However, networking and integration of these systems can significantly increase overall firepower.
The evolution of warfare, as seen during World War II and beyond, demonstrates a trend of increasing firepower with fewer personnel. Today’s rifleman can carry a diverse array of weapons, including anti-tank and anti-aircraft rockets, heavy mortars, and advanced rifles with advanced optics. Small armored vehicles can provide additional support, carrying ammunition and heavier weapons. For mechanized infantry, small aerial and ground-based drones can offer support, while main transport vehicles can carry ammunition and heavier weapons. For units like airfield guards, robotic systems can significantly enhance their defensive capabilities and operational range. Armored sentry robots equipped with advanced sensors and heavy machine guns could effectively engage large enemy forces. These vehicles, with their multiple turrets and diverse weaponry, could offer significant firepower and protection.
Attacking forces will require substantial armor to withstand heavy weapons and defeat a larger number of armored vehicles. The use of periscopes instead of exposed optics could reduce the vulnerability of vehicles to sniper attacks. Periscope mounts with multiple mirrors could provide continuous visibility, even after sustaining damage. However, laser dazzlers and EMP weapons pose additional threats.
The key point is that robots can be employed as weapons that can be stored and deployed as needed. Autonomous AI-controlled robots can perform tasks like perimeter defense, pipeline protection, and counter-sniper operations. This allows human troops to focus on more complex and critical tasks. The goal is to demonstrate that the integration of robots can be cost-effective and enhance overall combat capabilities. For example, robots equipped with belt-fed machine guns could provide valuable support to defensive positions, while drones and other robots could gather intelligence and provide additional firepower.