A robotics company is proposing the use of humanoid robots for patrolling the U.S. southern border, suggesting the technology could enhance surveillance capabilities in difficult terrains.
Sankaet Pathak, founder and CEO of Foundation, told Fox News Digital that the company's 'Phantom' robots are designed to autonomously navigate uneven landscapes, distinguish people from other obstacles, and map their surroundings. The ultimate goal, Pathak explained, is for these robots to conduct reconnaissance and surveillance missions, flagging suspicious activity for human border patrol officers.
Pathak indicated that Foundation has been in discussions with various national security agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Air Force, Navy, and Army. He stated that negotiations for potential contracts and applications have begun, with the possibility of a pilot program in the near future.
A DHS spokesperson confirmed to Fox News Digital that no formal agreements, pilots, or active prime contracts are currently in place between the department and Foundation. The spokesperson stated, "The Department of Homeland Security currently does not have any non-contractual agreements, pilots, or active prime contracts with Foundation."
Foundation's pitch highlights the limitations of existing automated solutions, such as drones and fixed cameras, in navigating complex environments and performing logistical tasks. Pathak believes that humanoid robots are well-suited to fill this gap. He also suggested that the robots could be adapted for underground operations, such as monitoring tunnels along the border.
Pathak emphasized that the robots are envisioned to support human officers by providing 24/7 surveillance and flagging activity, allowing agents to respond when intervention is necessary. "They will detect and then flag and then a human would decide kind of like what the next step it needs to be," he said, adding that the machines are not intended to make enforcement decisions independently in the near future.
Foundation is developing a second-generation Phantom robot, expected in the coming months, which will feature waterproof and dustproof capabilities, making it more rugged for outdoor deployment. While the company's immediate focus is on surveillance and reconnaissance, Pathak indicated a willingness to arm the robots for border operations if requested by the federal government.
