CCTV (China Central Television, the english version) has reported on the Korean robotic turret system that can detect and engage targets with or without a human operator.
The media has made a big deal about this system but American and European turret systems could easily run software to automatically detect and engage targets. They don't because it isn't a very good idea.
[ Many thanks to SeanG for emailing me the link. ]
Not a good idea? You got that right.
There isnt much point if it cant make difference between enemies and friends.
I’ll say, the blue screen of death could become litetal! Although they could be forgiven if they used the voice from the turret guns in Portal,
What the story behind the guys at the end of the vid? Is that the North/South border and are the troops from each side facing each other? I didn’t realize they stood face to face and looked around each other with bino’s….. Being a Marine and knowing the shit we talked to other braches (and any P.O.G’s) I can’t imagine the shit talking that is taking place at that post……
Hey, it’s a good idea when vicious aliens that gestate in human hosts are trying to overrun your perimeter…
Hopw does it know who’s friendly and who isn’t? That is bothering the crap out of me. what if you are a friendly and all of the sudden it goes nuts and starts shooting all willy nilly. this thing is not safe, is neat but definitely not safe IMO.
Actually, America does use automated turrets. The Phalanx CIWS is installed on every US Navy and Coast Guard vessel. The US has been using them since 1980. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phalanx_CIWS
Robocop!!!
Is it really that bad an idea? I would think it would be great as a supplement or replacement to a conventional mine field. Any sort of large scale conventional war really, where you are unlikely to need to discern between civilian and military targets on an active battlefield…
Not a good idea? Perhaps automated target engagement might not catch on here, but keep in mind South Korea has a substantial northern border where these could come in handy. If you (or your robot) sees someone in the DMZ, it is probably a safe bet they shouldn’t be there. Shoot first, ask questions later.
Buildin a sentry!
It seems the purpose of these weapon systems would be more in tune with a minefield than with a machine gun nest. And in that respect, they probably perform better than a minefield in many ways- easy to remove after hostilities, at least some IFF capability, less likely to go off from children or large animals
3km?! That’s nuts. It’s so futuristic looking.