China’s armed police mull riot control with zero human contact
The People’s Armed Police Force has shown how drones, uncrewed armoured vehicles and robot dogs could autonomously contain urban unrest
A new study from mainland China’s internal security forces offers a glimpse into a future where urban unrest is managed by autonomous machines instead of police in riot gear.
In a scenario laid out by engineering experts from the People’s Armed Police Force (PAP), a crowd – incited by rumours following a military takeover of a large city – gathers in a central square to assault key government installations.
Their protest meets with a swift response: roadblocks are suddenly deployed, cutting off their advance. Key instigators in the crowd are swiftly identified and captured.
Cut off from the internet and unable to broadcast their cause, the demonstrators eventually disperse on their own.
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Watch China’s full-size humanoid robot demonstrate agility and martial arts skills
Throughout, they do not confront a single soldier or police officer in person.