Overview
- ICE has finalized a $1.3 million contract to buy four Boston Dynamics Spot quadruped robots configured for investigative use.
- The robots will be fitted with RADeCO CBRNe sensor kits to detect chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive hazards and to support remote inspection in confined or dangerous spaces.
- The procurement document describes a 'Cerberus' control setup that allows beyond-line-of-sight operation at distances the contract cites at about 1,500 kilometers.
- Boston Dynamics says its terms ban weaponization and that it would void warranties, stop updates, terminate licenses, and pursue legal steps if the robots are misused.
- Civil-liberties groups have renewed protests and are seeking revocation of Massachusetts tax credits to the company as critics question the sole-source procurement and possible uses in immigration-related operations.