Humanoid robots have long been a staple of science fiction, but some technology companies are now actively exploring whether they could one day play a role in military operations.
Inside a San Francisco robotics facility, a humanoid robot named Phantom is being trained not for combat today, but for basic tasks such as interacting with objects and understanding its surroundings. The robot, developed by startup Foundation Robotics, is designed for both civilian and military use.
The company says it is the only US-based firm currently building humanoid robots specifically for a wide range of defense applications.
Potential military roles include transporting supplies, conducting reconnaissance missions, inspecting dangerous areas, recovering equipment or injured personnel, and eventually supporting combat operations. The idea is that robots could take on high-risk tasks, reducing danger for human soldiers.
Foundation Robotics CEO Sankaet Pathak argues that humanoid robots could help keep troops out of harm's way, particularly in dangerous environments such as urban combat zones and buildings where ambushes are common.
However, the technology remains far from battlefield-ready.
The company's current model, Phantom MK-1, still faces major limitations. It lacks a battery, cannot operate in harsh weather, cannot stand up on its own after falling, and has limited hand movement and strength.
A more advanced version, Phantom MK-2, is now under development. According to the company, it will be weather-resistant, capable of operating for about six hours on a single charge, and able to recover after falling. Engineers are also working on more advanced robotic hands that could eventually handle tools and other equipment.
Foundation aims to produce up to 40,000 robots annually by the end of 2027 and eventually reduce costs to below $20,000 per unit.
The company has already secured $24 million in research contracts linked to the US military and says two of its robots are currently being tested by the Ukrainian military. While US military trials focus on handling and logistics tasks, weapon-related testing is reportedly taking place in Ukraine.
The startup drew additional attention after Eric Trump joined the company as an investor and adviser earlier this year.
Military interest in humanoid robots appears to be growing. Experts say armed forces are exploring whether such machines could assist troops in a variety of roles.
According to Dean Fankhauser of robotics advisory firm Robozaps, it is unsurprising that some companies see military applications as a business opportunity.
Modern battlefields already make extensive use of autonomous drones and robotic systems, particularly in the war in Ukraine. Some companies have also explored arming four-legged robotic systems, although they have not yet been widely deployed in combat.
Still, many robotics firms oppose weaponising humanoid robots, citing ethical concerns and the potential risks of autonomous weapons.
Pathak argues that humanoid robots offer unique advantages because they are built to operate in environments designed for humans. Existing tools, vehicles and equipment could potentially be used without significant redesign.
He insists humans should remain responsible for decisions involving lethal force, although he acknowledges there could be situations where autonomous responses are considered necessary.
Despite the growing interest, experts say significant technical barriers remain.
One of the biggest challenges is developing artificial intelligence capable of operating safely in unpredictable real-world environments. Robots must be able to interpret complex situations, adapt to changing conditions and make decisions in real time.
Phantom relies on an AI system called Cortex, which combines task-specific reasoning with broader environmental awareness. Cameras provide a 360-degree view, allowing the robot to navigate and react to its surroundings.
Yet specialists caution that current humanoid robots are still far from matching human abilities.
Fankhauser notes that many commercial humanoid robots today struggle with relatively simple tasks and remain largely untested in chaotic real-world conditions.
"If there were a conflict over Taiwan today, the idea that humanoid robots would play a major combat role is unrealistic," he said, although he believes the technology could advance significantly within the next decade.
Florida Institute for Human and Machine Cognition researcher Robert Griffin also sees potential benefits in reducing risks to soldiers but says unpredictable environments remain a major obstacle.
Tasks that humans perform naturally, such as navigating unfamiliar buildings or reacting to unexpected events, remain extremely difficult for robots.
Battery life is another major challenge. Moving on two legs and operating multiple joints consumes large amounts of energy, making long operating times difficult to achieve.
Experts say the vision of humanoid robot soldiers remains largely theoretical for now. While advances in artificial intelligence and robotics are moving quickly, turning humanoid machines into reliable battlefield assets will require overcoming major technological, practical and ethical challenges.
Source: BBC