From Niche to Necessity: The Rise of Robotics in Modern Conflict
„In a war, everything changes,” asserts Yossi Wolf, CEO of Roboteam Defense, highlighting the transformative role of unmanned systems in contemporary battlefields, as witnessed in Ukraine and Gaza. Speaking to Breaking Defense, Wolf emphasized the surge in the utilization of ground robotics and other unmanned systems, which have become „very operational in the Gaza war.”
Shifting Paradigms: Weaponization and Approvals
Prior to the October 7th conflict, robots were considered a niche solution, legally restricted from carrying weapons. However, the war has ushered in a significant shift, with Israel’s „big army” now granting approvals for weaponized robots, according to Wolf. This marks a major change, as regular infantry and armored divisions integrate these systems into their operations.
Commercial Drones Join the Fray
The conflict also saw the military embrace commercial unmanned platforms. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) received a new Spark UAV in September 2023, foreshadowing the arrival of fifth-generation drones. Additionally, the Israel Air Force established a new drone squadron, further emphasizing the growing importance of unmanned aerial vehicles. The IDF has also rolled out unmanned M113s and unmanned D-9 bulldozers.
Grenade-Dropping Drones and Orchestrated Robotics
Wolf pointed out the IDF’s innovative use of small drones equipped with grenades, an initiative attributed to the IDF’s Yiftah unit, which specializes in developing cutting-edge combat solutions. He further explained the concept of connecting drones with unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs), creating a „new orchestra” of interconnected systems capable of coordinated action.
Training the Troops: Robotics Education Takes Priority
The proliferation of unmanned technology on the battlefield necessitates specialized training for troops. Wolf revealed that the IDF now has at least three units dedicated to robotics education, including the Lotar elite counter-terrorism unit, the combat engineers in Yahalom, and the IDF’s school of engineering, balatz.
In-House Innovation and Industry Partnerships
While the IDF increasingly builds robotic solutions in-house, the military also relies on industry partners like Roboteam. Roboteam’s „Robox” container solution enables troops to deploy a fleet of robots and drones, creating a perimeter of defense and maintaining distance from the enemy.
AI Augmentation: The Human Element Remains
While artificial intelligence (AI) plays a role in enhancing unmanned systems, it doesn’t make autonomous decisions. Wolf emphasized that „always a man in the loop.” Soldiers work in squads, with one controlling the vehicle, another controlling the weapon, and a third controlling the drone.
Diverse Platforms: From Tactical Robots to Six-Wheeled UGVs
The types of vehicles deployed range from small tactical ground robots like Roboteam’s MTGR to larger six-wheeled UGVs like Roboteam’s Rook, co-produced with Elbit Systems. These systems can perform a variety of missions, such as tunnel exploration, and are designed to be attritable and produced at scale.
Satellite Communication: Bridging the Gaps
Low earth orbit (LEO) satellites facilitate communication between unmanned systems, particularly in areas with limited connectivity. Drones can act as communication relays, ensuring seamless coordination even in dead spots.
Moving Sensors: Enhancing Border Security
Wolf envisioned a hypothetical patrol mission near the Jordanian border, where robots serve as „moving sensors,” communicating with each other and drones to provide comprehensive situational awareness. This interconnected network offers a more dynamic and unpredictable defense compared to traditional patrols.
Global Interest: European Customers Eye Robotic Solutions
The success of unmanned systems in modern warfare has captured the attention of the global defense market. Wolf noted interest from European customers, such as Germany, in Roboteam’s container solution, indicating a growing demand for robotic solutions in the international arena.
