Legged Squad Support System

[Nightshade]

http://www.darpa.mil/NewsEvents/Release ... 02/07.aspx

While I think that the technology involved here is pretty cool, the thing that stands out the most is that the government is spending millions to develop a horse.

I'm in the wrong line of work.

[Transient]

That thing's been around forever, I'm surprised they haven't gotten it closer to completion, honestly.

I'm sure there are better alternatives. Like you said, a horse. Or even a giant RC buggy type thing.

[ToxicBug]

Hat's off to Boston Dynamics. You know that you're doing something right when DARPA decides to fund the development for your project.

[Nightshade]

That thing's been around forever, I'm surprised they haven't gotten it closer to completion, honestly.

I'm sure there are better alternatives. Like you said, a horse. Or even a giant RC buggy type thing.

Technically it's the Big Dog demonstrator that's been around awhile, this is a new, more horsey iteration.

Memph, I've not seen a military version with the ability to leap walls in a single bound, not to say that there isn't one. I've seen leaping robots before, there's a one-legged bot that does flips that comes to mind. Can't find the vid, maybe it was this biped version: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n3WhwQ0S-vM

[obsidian]

Not a very stealthy beast of burden.

[4days]

Isn't there one that can leap over a wall?

only a little recon type thing afaik: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rND3br97FmY

[Transient]

Just equip the fucker with a rocket launcher. Why leap over walls when you can blast your way through, Red Faction style?

[GONNAFISTYA]

Rocket Assisted Takeoff should be installed on every robot.

[Silicone_Milk]

[lvlshot]http://webzoom.freewebs.com/outerheavenresistance/All%20New%20Metal%20GGear%20Pics/MGS4%203.jpg[/lvlshot]

Only a matter of time.

[Tsakali]

Rocket Assisted Takeoff...

is that what you use to get up in the morning?

[xer0s]

PETA won't allow us to send horses into combat. So our soldiers are forced to die next to robots instead...

[Tsakali]

the wonderful world of development. I wonder if they are also employing someone who makes sure, they are actually doing any work.

[ToxicBug]

the wonderful world of development. I wonder if they are also employing someone who makes sure, they are actually doing any work.

It's called a deadline

[Tsakali]

but who is setting this deadline? some all knowing, all powerful deity? when you're working on pioneering projects, there must be a serious disconnect from any type of expectation and standard procedure.

[obsidian]

"First rule in government spending: why build one when you can have two at twice the price?"

[scared?]

if they solve the sound issues its just gay...

[Eraser]

Rocket Assisted Takeoff should be installed on every robot.
http://www.youtube.com/v/97rSobuKBxI

Damn. I think my stomach would turn inside out if I were on that plane.

[ToxicBug]

but who is setting this deadline? some all knowing, all powerful deity? when you're working on pioneering projects, there must be a serious disconnect from any type of expectation and standard procedure.

DARPA is setting the deadline for Boston Dynamics.

[obsidian]

Rocket Assisted Takeoff should be installed on every robot.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operation_Credible_Sport

[Nightshade]

Damn. I think my stomach would turn inside out if I were on that plane.

I watched in person, had friends that actually got a ride, I was that close to being able to go. The thing looks like an express elevator, and it's stunning when you think about how much that fugly bird weighs. It has to be a hell of an experience.

[Tsakali]

astronauts where quoted saying: lol noobs

[xer0s]

were

[Tsakali]

i just hit a new low