Packs of robots to hunt down uncooperative humans???

The latest request from the Pentagon jars the senses. At least, it did mine. They are looking for contractors to provide a "Multi-Robot Pursuit System" that will let packs of robots "search for and detect a non-cooperative human".

One thing that really bugs defence chiefs is having their troops diverted from other duties to control robots. So having a pack of them controlled by one person makes logistical sense. But I'm concerned about where this technology will end up.

Given that iRobot last year struck a deal with Taser International to mount stun weapons on its military robots, how long before we see packs of droids hunting down pesky demonstrators with paralysing weapons? Or could the packs even be lethally armed? More...

See also:

1. Have you seen the new toy the Atlanta cops have acquired?
2. Here comes Big Dog, the U.S. army's latest weapon of war...
3. U.S. army prepares to invade the U.S.?