News Pentagon Explores Using Segways in Battle

From Space.com:

NEW YORK (AP) -- It's called the Segway Human Transporter, but the Pentagon is drafting the two-wheeled scooter as part of a plan to develop battlefield robots that think on their own and communicate with troops.

The program is still in the research phase, so the self-balancing scooters aren't expected to report to boot camp anytime soon.

So far, university researchers armed with Pentagon funding have programmed Segway robots that can open doors, avoid obstacles, and chase soccer balls _ all without human control.

Researchers say potential applications for the robots include performing search missions on the battlefield, transporting injured soldiers to safety, or following humans around while hauling their gear.

Dean Kamen, the Segway's inventor, told The Associated Press he had no qualms about enlisting his brainchild into the military.

Full story here

Of course Kamen has no qualms - he needs all the cash he can get to try and recoup his development costs. Lets face it - they're not flying off the shelves.

But the battlefield? Good God, they have enough problems on flat terrain, and depending on the battery situation could dump you flat on your face - just what you need when a quick strategic withdrawal is required....

The Inq has their own spin on GI Segways here