The British Army is set to revolutionize its training methods by introducing advanced AI-powered robots that mimic the behavior of enemies in combat scenarios. These robots, designed to resemble the head and torso of an average male, are equipped with cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) technology that allows them to interact with soldiers during training exercises, responding to their actions in real-time.
The robots, known as SimStrikers, represent a significant leap forward in military training, offering a dynamic and reactive “enemy” for soldiers to engage with. Developed by 4GD, a company founded by former Royal Marines, SimStriker is designed to enhance the realism of urban warfare training by simulating a thinking and reacting adversary.
James Crowley, Business Development Director at 4GD, explained the purpose behind the innovation: “Although it gives the impression of a terminator, unlike the movie we aren’t trying to subordinate soldiers to a robot. Rather, we want to use a robot to enhance the soldier. We want to bring the training environment as close to the operating environment as possible. That’s why it shouts, talks, and fires back. It is a leap forward in how the military can train for urban environments.”
The SimStriker robots are equipped with AI software, including ChatGPT, which enables them to engage in conversations with soldiers. Depending on how a soldier interacts with the robot—whether through calm negotiation or aggressive behavior—the robot’s response will vary. In certain scenarios, if a soldier acts in a hostile manner, the SimStriker can become aggressive and even fire BB pellets from its abdomen.
One particular training scenario involves soldiers entering a village where they encounter a SimStriker. The robot’s mood can change depending on the soldier’s decisions, such as whether to provide aid to the village’s inhabitants. If the soldier fails to help, the robot becomes more antagonized, creating a challenging situation that tests the soldier’s decision-making and conflict resolution skills.
The SimStriker is also designed to simulate the behavior of a guard. For example, when at rest, it might burp to give the impression of a guard who is not paying attention.
When alert, it can detect movement and issue commands such as “who’s there?” or “stop,” adding to the realism of the training experience.
The introduction of these AI robots marks a departure from traditional static wooden targets, which have long been used to train soldiers.
Crowley emphasized the benefits of this new technology, stating, “This new generation of smart adversaries has increased the realism and effectiveness of soldier training.”
SimStriker is currently in use with personnel at the 16 Air Assault Brigade in Colchester, and there are plans to further develop the technology. Future enhancements may include virtually simulating organs on the robot’s torso to more realistically demonstrate battlefield injuries.
The British Army’s move towards integrating AI into training comes at a time when the military is increasingly adopting AI in various aspects of its operations. Earlier this year, Capita, the company responsible for recruitment, announced it was using AI to expedite the hiring process for new soldiers. This AI software is used to scan and summarize recruits’ medical records, significantly reducing the time needed to process applications.
The use of AI in the military is part of a broader shift towards technology-driven warfare. In its updated Defence Command Paper in July 2023, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) highlighted the changing nature of conflict, drawing lessons from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The paper outlined plans for future military capabilities, including the use of robots, human augmentation to enhance soldiers’ performance, and advanced weapons systems.