India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is advancing the development of a humanoid robot designed to assist in military operations, aiming to reduce human soldiers’ exposure to high-risk scenarios. This initiative is being led by a team of scientists at the Research and Development Establishment (Engineers) in Pune.
Design and Capabilities
The humanoid robot under development features:
- 24 Degrees of Freedom: The upper body includes seven in the arm, four in the gripper, and two in the head, enabling complex movements.
- Audiovisual Perception: Equipped with sensors for environmental awareness.
- Hazardous Material Handling: Designed to safely manage explosives and hazardous substances.
- Advanced Mobility: Capable of navigating unstructured terrains with balance and stability.
The robot’s development is expected to be completed by 2027.
Technological Challenges
Key challenges in the robot’s development include:
- Seamless Task Execution: Ensuring smooth performance of complex operations.
- Advanced Mobility Control: Achieving effective movement in diverse environments.
- Real-Time Information Processing: Developing systems for quick decision-making and response.
Addressing these challenges is crucial for the robot’s operational effectiveness.
Global Context
India’s DRDO is joining other nations in exploring the use of humanoid robots for military applications. While some countries have already integrated such technologies, India’s approach emphasizes indigenous development and adaptation to specific operational needs.This development reflects DRDO’s commitment to enhancing India’s defense capabilities through innovation in robotics and artificial intelligence.
