US Lawmakers Alarmed By China’s AI ‘Robot Dogs’ In Military Use

China’s latest military development, AI-powered “robot dogs,” has raised significant concerns among U.S. lawmakers. On May 25, China’s state-run CCTV released a video showcasing these 110-pound robotic dogs equipped with rifles, performing advanced military maneuvers. This development has prompted calls from Congress for the Secretary of Defense to evaluate the potential threat of China’s military AI capabilities.

These robotic dogs, powered by batteries, can operate for two to four hours and execute various movements, including running, lying down, and jumping. They feature a 4-D wide-angle perception system that enables them to send real-time reconnaissance footage to command centers and avoid obstacles autonomously.

The video has led to fears that American soldiers could encounter these armed robots on the battlefield. A Chinese soldier in the video indicated that these robots could replace human soldiers in urban combat, increasing concerns among U.S. lawmakers.

Rep. Vern Buchanan (R-FL) has emphasized the importance of monitoring AI advancements worldwide. He pointed out that while the U.S. has robotic dogs, China’s military application of these robots is troubling. Buchanan has proposed 18 amendments to the National Defense Authorization Act, one of which addresses the need to track China’s AI developments.

“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 remarked.

China’s progress in AI and military technology underscores the necessity for the U.S. to remain vigilant and prepared to maintain its global leadership in defense capabilities.