A robotic mule can lift heavy objects. Boston Dynamics is the current manufacturer. It was originally fitted with a petrol-powered engine. This makes a lot noise and has been compared to a swarming of angry bees. Boston Dynamics has developed a quieter version. The Spot is powered by electrical and hydraulics. This robot can lift around 40 pounds (18kg). It is however not repairable.
LS3
The LS3 robot mule has been undergoing platform refinement. Combat simulations have also been conducted at military bases in California. It needs further refinement to ensure its efficiency. Currently, it has been nicknamed "Cujo" by its company. It has been used as a demonstration and in training exercises at Marine Corps Warfighting Lab.
The LS3 robotic mule is equipped with a range of sensors and laser radar. It can be used as a follow-the-leader device and can even follow the path of a dismounted Marine. Marines can also issue commands to this robot.
BigDog
Boston Dynamics' BigDog robot mule is currently under development for the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency. It can carry hundreds of pounds and can walk on rough terrain, even snow. The robot can also climb a mountain without tumbling.
The BigDog robotic mule has been in development for several years and was developed in a lab at MIT with funding from DARPA. The BigDog's legs are articulated, and the system has a variety of sensors. The robot does NOT require watering. The robot runs on a gasoline engine, and it sounds like a huge chainsaw. It might be outfitted with a solar array in the future.
Pedongi
Pedongi, also known as the robotic mule or pedongi, was an Indian soldier. The name of the animal was inspired by a small West Bengal city. This mule belonged to an Indian Army animal transport unit. This unit used mules to transport ammunition, stores, and casualties to military hospitals.
Pedongi served more than 30 years in the army. The Vir Chakra award was given to the mule after he had retired from the army in 1998 for having served the longest time of any mule serving in the Indian army. The story of Pedongi has changed a bit over the years, but the basic story remains the same. During the 1971 conflict, Jammu Kashmir, the Army used the mules as part of its Animal Transport convoy. Pakistani soldiers had attacked the mules but the infantry group launched an attack to counterattack.