By Atta Ullah
The field of military robotics is undergoing fascinating advancement, where engineering, technology, and biology intersect to create advanced systems capable of performing complex tasks in complex environments.
A prominent aspect of this evolution is biomimicry—the design and production of robots and drones, some as small as flies, inspired by biological entities and processes. As militaries worldwide seek to enhance operational effectiveness while minimizing risks to human life, the integration of bio-mimicry in military robotics presents innovative solutions that could redefine the future of warfare.
Bio-inspired robotics involve learning from and then emulating natural intelligence and characteristics of living things into physical embodiments, such as insectoids, Robirds, robo-reptiles, robot dogs, humanoids, etc. Nature’s designs have been refined over millions of years of evolution, leading to highly efficient mechanisms and strategies that can inspire new technologies, with potential implications for warfare, security, and military innovation.
Nature has perfected its designs over billions of years through evolution, creating organisms and systems capable of surviving and thriving in various environmental conditions. In warfare, this natural wisdom can lead to innovative solutions that enhance equipment, strategies, and combat readiness. For example, the streamlined body of a fish and the intricate navigation techniques of migratory birds provide valuable insights that can enhance the functionality and versatility of military robots/drones.
By studying and replicating the efficiency, resilience, and adaptability of natural systems, such as living things, military forces are developing advanced robotics and strategies that enhance operational effectiveness, minimize collateral damage, and promote sustainability.
The natural world is rife with examples of camouflage that help animals evade predators and survive. Animals such as octopuses and chameleons have mastered the art of camouflage, enabling them to blend seamlessly with their environments. The cuttlefish, for example, can change its skin color and texture to blend seamlessly into its surroundings. By studying these adaptive capabilities, such as changing color and texture in response to their surroundings, military assets could significantly reduce their visibility to enemy forces.
This principle extends beyond visual concealment; researchers are also exploring ways to mimic natural sound-masking techniques employed by certain animals, creating technologies that reduce noise signatures for military vehicles and operations, thereby enhancing stealth capabilities at sea or underwater.
Nature offers insights into how organisms perceive their environments and make decisions based on sensory input. Military robots can be equipped with advanced sensory systems inspired by biological organisms, such as echolocation in bats or the compound eyes of insects. These technologies can enhance situational awareness, allowing robots to detect threats and navigate complex environments effectively.
Additionally, the study of social organisms can inform military tactics and strategies. Ants, for instance, work collaboratively to solve complex problems and efficiently divide labor. Understanding these cooperative behaviors can inspire military commanders to adopt new strategies for teamwork and resource allocation, fostering a more adaptive and responsive military culture.
Historically, animals have been used in wars as Dog Soldiers, Spy Cats, Bat Bombs, Pigeon Messengers, etc. because they morph in the environment and avoid detection for being a weapon of war. One of the main advantages of biomimicry in military robotics is improved mobility. For instance, robots designed to mimic the movement of animals such as cheetahs or insects can achieve incredible speed and agility, making them ideal for reconnaissance and rapid response situations.
Research into legged robotics inspired by animals has shown that designs mimicking the locomotion of a kangaroo or dog can produce robots capable of navigating rough terrains where wheeled alternatives fall short. The instance of animal-like-looking robots has increased with the use of four-legged dog robots in counter-terrorism exercises, and the race has already started between different countries to weaponize four-legged animals. These robots can carry weapons, and aim for targets, as well as collaborate with other robots on the battlefield for operational efficiency and coordination.
Similarly, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) designed to mimic the flight patterns of birds can operate more stealthily and efficiently by emulating the swarm intelligence of bees, insects, and birds that share tasks and work in coordination for survival.
By studying avian flight dynamics and swarm intelligence, developers are creating drones that exhibit superior maneuverability and energy efficiency, allowing them to gather intelligence without detection. The adaptability of insects, such as flies, can also inspire agile surveillance drones that navigate complex environments, making them essential tools in modern warfare.
Furthermore, the behavior of predators in nature can help develop surveillance strategies and enhance battlefield awareness. Military planners are learning from how apex predators stalk their prey, leading to improved approaches in reconnaissance, situational awareness, and targeting- much like how a bee delivers a sting.
Recently, the United States conducted military exercises that simulate drone swarms to enhance operational awareness and achieve tactical superiority, and above all as a first response in a future conflict with China. In a similar vein, China also tested the largest swarm of autonomous drones by connecting approximately 10,000 units into a single network for tactical purposes in future conflicts. In another instance, the Chinese scientists developed a battle drone that can rapidly multiply midair, out of a single unit, to achieve tactical shock and awe and work in collaboration with other drones for task sharing.
These advancements can lead to military assets that are more effective in reconnaissance, search-and-rescue missions, and even combat scenarios. Inspired by social insects like ants and bees, swarm robotics aims to deploy multiple robots that work collaboratively to achieve complex tasks.
In military contexts, this could mean coordinating several drones or ground robots to cover large areas for search and rescue missions, surveillance, or even offensive operations. Additionally, the flexibility and adaptability of these systems, modeled after the collective behavior seen in nature, present a powerful force multiplier for engaging in dynamic battlefields. In the Ukraine-Russia war, for instance, drones have proven to be transformative in terms of situational awareness, precision strikes, and reduced casualties, above all shifting the dynamics of conflict in the favor of the weaker party: Ukraine.
While the potential benefits of biomimicry in military robotics are significant, several challenges must be considered. Ethical concerns regarding the use of bio-inspired robots in combat scenarios must be addressed, particularly regarding accountability and decision-making. It is essential to ensure that these advanced technologies do not exacerbate existing inequalities or contribute to an arms race, as the urgency of military needs may outpace the slow and iterative process of mimicking natural systems.
Therefore, efforts should be made to develop biomimetic innovations responsibly, with a focus on protecting civilians and the environment. Military planners/scientists must collaborate with ethicists, biologists, and the communities affected by warfare to navigate the complexities of these applications.
Furthermore, as countries around the world invest in research and development, bio-inspired designs will significantly influence future military operations. By learning from nature, military robotics can improve operational capabilities while minimizing risks to human life—ultimately striving for more effective and humane approaches to modern warfare. To leverage the wisdom of nature, there should be pathways that ensure not only the survival of military forces but also for preservation of the environment.
To sum up, Biomimicry is ushering in a new era of military robotics by providing innovative solutions that leverage the intelligence of nature and unique opportunities to harness nature’s ingenuity in transforming warfare. By drawing inspiration from the natural characteristics and intelligence of living things, military innovation can lead to enhanced capabilities, improved sustainability, and more ethical practices. As the world is on the brink of this exciting frontier, it is essential to proceed thoughtfully, emphasizing technologies and strategies that serve the goals of defense and the broader pursuit of peace and environmental awareness.
Author: Atta Ullah – Research Assistant at Balochistan Think Tank Network (BTTN), Quetta.
(The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of World Geostrategic Insights).