Spot, a four-legged robotic dog, has been tapped by the U.S. Marines to undergo basic training and to test its capabilities on how it can help in various field operations of the corps. The robodog was designed and developed by Boston Dynamics, a subsidiary of Google Inc.

For proper guidance and support, a team of robotics experts from DARPA or Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency went along with Spot dog on its training and tests in Quantico, Virginia at the Marine Corps Base. There, the robodog joined the troops in several combat exercises to gauge its competence.

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Better than some of previous robots sent for military testing, the 160-pound robotic dog can be operated from a distance as far as 500 meters using a controller connected to computer. It can run in very difficult terrains, rough or smooth, rocky or grassy, and even in an urban setting. It also has an amazing balancing mechanism which keeps its stability even if it has been hit with much force.

Ars Technica relayed on their post about what vital tasks the robotic dog can do for the Marines. It can be used as an advanced scouting robot to explore a target place for probable danger or present adversary troops. For the past years, this risky job has been assigned to specially trained dogs.

With 'Spot' the robot's excellent capabilities and maneuvering skills in a variety of terrain conditions, the Marines has certified its valuable advantages to their organization. "Spot is great and has exceeded the metrics that we've provided," said Capt. James Pineiro, head of the Marine Corps Warfighting Lab's Quantico branch.

The corps also reiterated their strong willingness to utilize all available technological advancements that could help them enhance their warfighting abilities.

Meanwhile, the renowned tech company, Boston Dynamics, seeks to continue creating and providing more advanced robots not only for the U.S. Military but also for other companies that may need their advice and assistance. 

TagsSpot Robotic Dog, Robodog, Boston Dynamics, US Marine Corps