Robots March Forward

UPDATE: This is the MULE from Lockheed (thanks, anonymous)

Anyway, robots are robots. Here are some more:

So does this put us one step closer to the Imperial Walker?

Lockheed Martin MULE Program Completes Key Review, Begins Work on Final System Design

DALLAS, TX, February 27th, 2008 — The Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] Multifunction Utility/Logistics and Equipment (MULE) vehicle program successfully completed its System Preliminary Design Review (PDR), signaling a new phase in the program’s development as part of the U.S. Army’s Future Combat Systems (FCS) modernization initiative. As a result of this recent review, Lockheed Martin will now begin to transition from the concept maturation phase into detailed design work.

The MULE/ARV-Assault Light, a 3.5-ton class vehicle for the FCS program, offers an extraordinary capability that will support the U.S. Army’s transformation to a lighter and more mobile fighting force. The robot’s unique mobility will enable it to go everywhere the Soldier can go and more. It will allow Soldiers of the transformed Army to use technology to perform a number of dull, dirty and dangerous jobs performed by Soldiers today, freeing troops to focus more effectively on the success of their mission.

The MULE/ARV-Assault Light’s highly mobile platform is a unique 6×6 independent articulated suspension. Coupled with in-hub motors powering each wheel, the suspension system provides extreme mobility in complex terrain, far exceeding that of vehicles utilizing more conventional suspension systems.

Here’s a video of this [another] system, which has some interesting real-world applications if it can be successfully fielded.