Congress expresses concerns over Chinese military’s deployment of rifle-toting robot dogs

Congress has inserted language in the annual defense authorization bill to require a new assessment from the Defense Department on the threat of rifle-toting robot dogs used by China in potential future conflicts. Chinese military officials showed off armed robotic quadrupeds during recent military drills with Cambodia. A 110-pound dog-like robot is shown carrying and firing an automatic rifle in a video released by state-run CCTV. American military has experimented with robot dogs for reconnaissance and unit support roles. House members demand an investigation into the threat posed by robot dogs to national security. The amendment will need to survive negotiations with senators before becoming law. The Senate is expected to make possible amendments to the legislation in the next few weeks.