Cooperative Multirobot Systems for Military Applications

Abstract

We seek to review recent and current research efforts by the US military in the field of robotics. We present background on research arms and current overall strategy in developing autonomous and robotic systems. We also discuss specific projects undertaken by the different research arms and service branches. The US military has widely used remote piloted systems for 25 years. That has shifted to systems that are capable of autonomous deployment and navigation but are overseen by human operators. Current research thrusts include increasing the amount of decision-making these systems are capable of and allowed to make. Recent research also focuses on developing new and novel tactics enabled by autonomous systems and ensuring that these systems can work well with each other and with human teammates. Robotics and autonomous systems are central to the long-term plans of the U.S. Military. Each service branch is pursuing research according to its mission and culture. Multirobot systems and increased levels of autonomy are key research thrusts, though human oversight will remain for the near future.