On May 31, Levy, head of motorized systems at the Ground Forces
Technology Brigade, outlined the Army's vision for robots. The colonel said
robots would comprise a strategic deterrent to both conventional and
irregular forces, such as Hizbullah.
"In the future, we will see robotic platforms that will take the place
of fighters in the field," Levy told the Military and Aviation conference.
Officials said the Army has already been overseeing the development and
deployment of robots for logistical operations. They said Israeli defense
majors have been testing unmanned ground platforms that would
enhance mobility and intelligence.
"The Israel Defense Forces' observation capabilities are becoming more
and more enhanced," Levy said.
Levy did not provide a timetable for the deployment of combat robots,
but he said the prospect that a robot would replace a soldier was at least a
decade away. He said the Army was focusing on tiny systems to dismantle
improvised explosive devices. The colonel said the use of unmanned systems
would fill a range of army requirements, particularly in urban warfare
operations.
"The IDF's vision is to develop a system that fits a wide range of
missions in the field, with the possibility of an effective operational
capability that will produce a tactical advantage, deterrence and a
reduction in casualties," Levy said.