ICE considers purchasing robot dogs for deportation operations

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is reportedly considering the purchase of four-legged unmanned ground vehicles, commonly known as "robot dogs." The agency's market research announcement included a draft regarding the technical specifications of these vehicles, though it noted that this does not necessarily mean a firm order will be placed in the future.

The plan has emerged while discussions continue regarding President Donald Trump's administration's strict deportation policies and the increase in resources allocated to ICE. Civil liberties groups state that the use of new technologies and intervention tools in immigration enforcement could raise new questions regarding oversight and the use of force.

According to NBC News, the government is reportedly considering an expenditure of at least 2 million dollars for robot dogs. It was stated that the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) procurement planning system also includes Spot units developed by Boston Dynamics and accessories for these vehicles.

USE FOR RECONNAISSANCE IN DANGEROUS AREAS

A Department of Homeland Security (DHS) official said that dog-like robots can be equipped with cameras and chemical detection sensors and are intended to be used in situations that could be risky for personnel. These vehicles are designed to navigate difficult terrain, climb stairs, and conduct reconnaissance in areas where it might be dangerous to send humans in the initial phase.

The primary function of the robots is to collect images and data through a system controlled remotely by an operator. This allows personnel to make an initial assessment of the environment before entering the field. It is emphasized that ICE's interest at this stage is in the nature of planned procurement and a budget ceiling, and there is no definitive decision yet on how many units will be purchased.

The agency's technology spending is not limited to robot dogs. A 16.7 million dollar contract for the purchase of 6 thousand pairs of electric shock gloves for ICE agents and officers is also among the procurement plans. The devices, known as GLOVE, produce an electric pulse when the electrodes in the palms come into direct contact with the skin; they do not work through clothing.

Although the DHS describes these gloves as a "de-escalation" tool, the fact that robotic reconnaissance vehicles and physical intervention equipment have come to the agenda at the same time may increase debates over the role of technology in ICE operations and how the limits of its use will be monitored.

News Source: 12punto