US Firm Pitches Humanoid Robots for Southern Border Patrol

A United States robotics company is proposing the use of humanoid robots to assist federal agents along the southern border. Foundation CEO Sankaet Pathak says the firm’s Phantom robot could conduct reconnaissance and surveillance in difficult terrain.

The border stretches nearly 2,000 miles. Pathak argues that fixed cameras, drones and patrol vehicles struggle in many sections. He asks why humans still have to cover the ground in person.

Phantom is designed to distinguish people from other obstacles, move independently across uneven ground and map its surroundings. The robot would operate around the clock and alert human officers when it detects possible crossings.

Pathak told interviewers that Foundation is in conversations with almost all national security bodies, including the Air Force, Navy, Army and the Department of Homeland Security. The company is beginning to negotiate contracts and possible applications.

He said the technology has already been demonstrated to DHS officials. A DHS spokesperson responded that the department currently has no non-contractual agreements, pilots or active prime contracts with Foundation.

Pathak indicated that a pilot could start quickly, with larger deployments possible within a few months. Weather resistance remains a limitation of the current model. A second-generation version expected soon is designed to be waterproof, dustproof and more rugged for outdoor use.

The company is prepared to arm the robots if the government requests it. Pathak stressed that the machines would not make enforcement decisions on their own. Human officers would retain control.

The pitch comes as Foundation develops its Phantom platform for both industrial and security roles. Pathak presents the border application as a way to reduce risk for agents working in remote or hazardous areas.

Officials have not announced any formal programme. The discussions remain at an early stage according to the statements released so far.