Why has the U.S. army not developed more robotic weaponry?

Question

With all the terrible loss of life going on in military conflicts, I am surprised that the greatest strength of the U.S. has not been used to a greater degree: technological advantage, with the financial wealth to optimize it.

So, for example, why not remote-control automated tanks, or small remote-control vehicles and other armed devices that infantry could use to explore dangerous buildings or neighbourhoods, etc.
It might be expensive, but it seems totally feasible with the technology now available. Think of the lives it could save!

I know there is some automation, such as drone aircraft, etc. but most of this seems rudimentary, and mainly useful for intelligence-gathering, etc. I've heard of robotic devices used to search rubble after disasters. Again, I'm surprised the military hasn't developed these technologies further.

Answer 1

The US Military has made many leaps forward in robot technology and in some areas that you have mentioned. BUT the studies also show that a M1A1 Tank loader being an 18 to 21 years old is faster and can distinguish quicker than a robot who is an enemy or not... Technology for entering buildings has been around for years, but is very cost prohibitive for combat use and has to have 3 personnel to operate and maintain. In field conditions the machinery needs excessive amount of maintenance to keep it in top "combat" trim... When the ability of machinery equals the abilities of a young well trained soldier then Their will be less personnel and more technology in the modern battlefield.

Answer 2

The British and Americans will probably make invent new stuff in the future and dont forget the British invent some good things and so the Americans(joint projects)its always been that way.

Answer 3

We have combat robots that are sent in to defuse IEDs and such.

The basic issue is developing the technology to the point where they can operate autonomously.

Answer 4

lol if we had robatic weapondry no country would catch up for a long time but we see some already like the predator ariel drone