South American militaries, while intrigued by the potential of unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs), face unique challenges due to the region’s challenging terrains, such as the Andes mountains and the Amazon rainforest. In many of these terrains, traditional means like horses prove more effective and reliable than modern technology. Several army units in countries like Argentina, Chile, Colombia, and Peru continue to train and operate with horses, mules, and donkeys, especially in areas where UGVs would not function efficiently.
Key Points:
- UGVs offer benefits in a variety of applications including rescue, surveillance, and combat, but their efficacy in South America is limited due to challenging terrains.
- Traditional means such as horses and mules are often preferred in South America due to their adaptability to the rugged terrains and weather conditions, as well as the strengthened ties they provide between the army and local populations.
- Units from the Argentine, Chilean, Ecuadorian, Colombian, and Peruvian armies utilize horses for various operations, including patrol missions.
- Experts argue that there are situations where traditions prove superior to technology, especially in regions with extreme topographical challenges.
- While there is an interest in developing UGVs in South America, companies like American Robotics and Milrem Robotics are at the early stages of introducing and testing these technologies in the region.
