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Inspired By Nature, “Robotic Coyotes” Help the US Army Keep Runways Free of Animals, Ensuring Safety and Efficiency in Air Operations
Often, nature inspires solutions to challenges of the modern world. Keeping military airfields free of wildlife is one such case. The United States Army found an unusual answer: a cyber predator.
The US Army Corps of Engineers Research and Development Center (ERDC) created the so-called “robotic coyotes.”
Their mission is simple, yet crucial: to keep the runways clean and ensure the safety of pilots and other service members.
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Animals Pose Real Risks in Operations
The presence of birds and other animals at airfields is a constant problem. They directly threaten aircraft and ground operations.
Birds, for example, can damage engines and structures. Meanwhile, rabbits and deer roam the runways or ruin equipment by digging and building nests.
To reduce these risks, operators turn to drones, lights, cannons, and even trained animals, such as falcons and dogs. The most important thing is to avoid incidents that could endanger lives and equipment.
Inspiration From Natural Predators
This time, technology went further. ERDC researchers decided to replicate the presence of a feared predator: the coyote.
Since rabbits and deer avoid areas where these animals are present, the idea was to create robots that resemble them to keep them away.
After five years of development, the Coyote Rovers began testing at various military airfields, such as Naval Air Station Pensacola in Florida.
Machines Adapted to Any Terrain
These devices are four-wheeled motorized vehicles capable of reaching speeds of 32 km/h. Plastic figures shaped like coyotes were installed on the structure, enhancing resemblance to the predator.
The robots can follow pre-programmed routes and create exclusion zones, preventing animals from approaching.
Additionally, they are designed for rugged terrain and equipped to identify species that could pose problems for military operations.
With this combination of mechanics and natural strategy, the Army hopes to increase safety and keep airfields operating without interference from unwanted visitors.
With information from Olhar Digital.
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