China has unveiled a new military innovation that has U.S. lawmakers worried: AI-powered “robot dogs.” These 110-pound robotic dogs, shown in a video released by China’s state-run CCTV on May 25, are equipped with rifles and display advanced military tactics. This revelation has prompted members of Congress to urge the Secretary of Defense to assess the threat posed by China’s use of AI in its military operations.
These battery-operated robotic dogs can run for two to four hours and perform various movements such as running, lying down, and jumping. They are equipped with a 4-D wide-angle perception system that allows them to transmit real-time reconnaissance footage to command posts and navigate obstacles independently.
The video has sparked fears among U.S. lawmakers that American soldiers might face these armed robotic dogs on the battlefield. A Chinese soldier in the video mentioned that these robots could replace human soldiers in urban combat, heightening these concerns.
Rep. Vern Buchanan (R-FL) has been vocal about the need to monitor AI developments globally. He noted that while the U.S. has robotic dogs, China’s adaptation for military use is alarming. Buchanan has introduced 18 amendments to the latest draft of the National Defense Authorization Act, one of which focuses on tracking China’s AI advancements.
“If we don’t pay attention to what other countries around the world are doing on the AI front, we risk losing our standing on the global stage and position as the world’s preeminent fighting force,” Buchanan stated.
China’s advancements in AI and military technology continue to challenge U.S. supremacy, emphasizing the need for vigilance and preparedness in this rapidly evolving field.
