Turkish military to use ‘robot guards’ in dangerous areas

The Turkish military is set to employ “remote-controlled surveillance and shooting platforms” that will provide a lookout and provide potential firepower for military posts in dangerous areas, Anatolia news agency reported.

The robot “Guard” was developed by Yüksel Defense Systems Inc. following two years of extensive research and is now ready for service.

Hayri Esen, a managing member at the company, said they developed the machine to be used as an anti-terror weapon, adding that that the robot passed shooting tests with 100 percent accuracy.

The guard can follow all moving targets within its range by means of a thermal camera, electro-optic camera sensors and laser measurement device. The system employs an automatic 500 bullet rapid-fire system that makes escape for targets potentially difficult.

Operators can control the robot, which may perform automatic surveillance on predetermined routes, through both wired and wireless options. At the same time, the machine can also provided video of its surroundings.

Meanwhile, software installed on the robot neutralizes the disruptive effects of severe weather conditions such as fog or snow.

Because lookout guards are often the first targets in terrorist raids against military posts, the guard is expected to play a vital role in the defense of such locations.