A groundbreaking project led by the Brno University of Technology, in collaboration with developers and army specialists from the University of Defence, aims to revolutionize reconnaissance operations by deploying drones and ground robots controlled by artificial intelligence (AI). The system, recently showcased at the Brno military technology fair Idet, is designed to replace human reconnaissance soldiers and can effectively explore up to 500 square meters at once, utilizing ten drones and two ground robots.

The integration of AI enables these technical systems to react to their environment, solve complex problems, and accomplish specific objectives. Equipped with advanced sensors, the system can monitor personnel and equipment numbers, detect radioactivity levels, and relay evaluated data directly to the commander of the reconnaissance team through a tablet interface. The ultimate goal is to achieve full autonomy, allowing the system to operate without direct human control while already pre-programmed with specific tasks to complete.

Anticipated to be ready for deployment by 2025, the system can be further expanded by incorporating additional drones and ground robots, thereby extending the range of the search area. Depending on the type of detectors installed on the drones, the system can detect a wide range of objects, from soldiers using thermal cameras to specialized measuring devices for detecting radioactivity.

Upon detecting radioactivity, the AI system immediately dispatches one of the ground robots, specifically the Orpheus model developed over two decades by Professor Luďek Žalud’s team at the Brno University of Technology. The ground robot refines measurements, collects samples, retrieves data, and assesses potential risks. Moreover, the AI component allows for the identification of camouflaged enemy military equipment.

Researchers from the University of Defence are working on calculating optimal system settings to enable the AI to dynamically adjust the drone swarm’s course during missions. Although it may resemble a strategic computer game, the complexity lies in the underlying mathematics and algorithmic calculations.

While reconnaissance soldiers will undoubtedly remain vital to any army, the implementation of this cutting-edge Czech research promises to significantly enhance their safety and efficiency during operations. The fusion of AI, drones, and ground robots opens up new possibilities and heralds a new era of reconnaissance technology.

Article by Prague Forum