Army tests robotic coyotes to defend fighter jets

The Army Corps of Engineers’ Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) is developing unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs), dubbed “Coyote Rovers,” to deter birds and other wildlife from military airfields, where animal interference can cause serious damage and safety risks. Mounted with life-size plastic coyotes and capable of moving at high speeds, these cost-effective robotic systems are being tested at multiple military bases and aim to reduce bird strikes and wildlife-related maintenance costs. The Coyote Rovers can be programmed for autonomous patrols and may incorporate future upgrades like AI for species recognition and terrain adaptability. The technology, which could also benefit civilian infrastructure and aquatic environments, offers a scalable, reliable alternative to traditional deterrence methods like hawk handlers or live dogs.