USMC to use robots for moving targets
The Marine Corps will begin testing a humanoid target in July to be used at USMC training centres.
Dubbed “Rover” by its maker — Australian-based Marathon Robotics — the autonomous targets can avoid objects and seek cover when fired at. An important feature is that Rovers can run in packs and scatter for cover. Rover’s onboard sensors can also distinguish between kill shots to the spine or brain and a nonlethal hit. USMC experts say that Rovers mimic the behavior of insurgents that marines face during their operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Rover stands at nearly 6 feet and consists of a torso mannequin perched atop a two-wheeled carriage. With its critical components armored to withstand repeated beatings from 5.56mm and 7.62mm ammo, it weighs in at a hefty 330 pounds. The replaceable torso target can take hundreds of shots before being changed.
Eight Rovers are planned for testing. If demonstrated successfully, they will become part of marines’ firing ranges.
Source: nauka21vek.ru
