The machine has the ability to detect targets, issue warnings via speaker, fire rubber bullets, and even real ammunition.
Samsung is a well-known brand for its electronic products and home appliances, from smart refrigerators to Galaxy smartphones. But did you know that this South Korean conglomerate once created a self-operating sentry robot specifically designed for the South Korean military? Its name is SGR-A1, a creation of Samsung’s subsidiary known as Samsung Techwin.
Self-operating sentry robot SGR-A1.
Although Samsung Techwin no longer exists, having been acquired by Hanwha Group in 2014 and transformed into the company now known as Hanwha Techwin, it was responsible for creating a gun-wielding robot for guarding duties along the border of South Korea with North Korea before this transition occurred.
Samsung Techwin developed this robot in collaboration with Korea University, and according to Stripes, several units were deployed in early 2010 to the demilitarized zone (DMZ) that separates the Korean Peninsula. This area was established at the end of 1953 and stretches approximately 240 kilometers along the 38th parallel, serving as the border between the two countries.
Samsung Techwin’s autonomous robot
The SGR-A1 was deployed along the South Korean border as a self-operating sentry in all weather conditions. Each robot was reported to cost approximately $200,000 at the time in 2006, with the ultimate goal of replacing human soldiers in guarding duties. Global Security reported that Samsung Techwin claimed their system was designed to replace humans—who can be impaired by harsh weather or fatigue—with each unit capable of employing various measures to deter intruders.
Essentially, Samsung Techwin’s SGR-A1 includes a speaker and microphone on board so that South Korean soldiers can access it to deactivate the weapon activation system. For adversaries, the system initially emits audio warnings, followed by non-lethal rubber bullets, and then real metal bullets fired from the robot’s machine gun. Some sources report that the SGR-A1 can be programmed to warn operators before using lethal rounds, while others suggest that the robot can operate without human decision-making.
Product introduction video for SGR-A1
The SGR-A1 is equipped with a Daewoo Precision Industries K3 5.56 mm machine gun, and according to reports from We Are The Mighty, they can be upgraded to the Milkor MGL light 40 mm grenade launcher as an option. Regarding its observation system, this robot is outfitted with a variety of sensors and cameras, including a laser rangefinder and an infrared thermal camera.
Pattern recognition software allows the SGR-A1 to differentiate between humans, animals, and other objects. In daylight, the system can identify and track multiple targets at distances of up to several kilometers, while at night, the range is reduced to about half.
Due to its special and somewhat sensitive nature, the exact number of these robotic sentries deployed in the past or currently in use has not been publicly disclosed. However, based on product introduction videos, it is clear that the SGR-A1 is no joke.
