A life-size, rideable Star Wars AT-AT walker has come to life through 3D printing, capturing the imaginations of fans and engineers alike. This awe-inspiring replica of the iconic walker from the Star Wars universe isn’t just a static model; it’s fully rideable, blending science fiction with modern technology. The design, realized by a team of dedicated Star Wars enthusiasts and engineers, showcases how 3D printing is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, allowing fans to live out their dreams in a tangible way.
Meanwhile, in a far more grounded application of robotics, the U.S. Army is experimenting with AI-enhanced robot dogs equipped with rifles at a Middle Eastern testing facility. As reported by Military.com, these robot dogs, created by Ghost Robotics, are being tested for anti-drone capabilities at the Red Sands Integrated Experimentation Center in Saudi Arabia. The Army has been integrating robot dogs into its formations for tasks such as explosive disposal, perimeter security, and intelligence gathering. Now, with AI-controlled rifle mounts, the machines are taking on new roles in combat scenarios.
The use of these armed robots has sparked controversy, particularly due to concerns about their deployment in active conflict zones like Gaza, where Israel has utilized Ghost Robotics’ robot dogs. Anti-war activists in Philadelphia have protested Ghost Robotics’ contracts with the Israeli army, raising ethical questions about the militarization of robotics.
The U.S. Marine Corps has also contracted Ghost Robotics for similar purposes, working to develop specialized weaponry for the AI-enhanced canines. While it remains unclear when or if these robotic dogs will see widespread deployment, the Army has stated it is exploring “transformative capabilities” for future combat operations, testing the limits of what advanced AI and robotics can achieve on the battlefield.