IDF Negotiates for Up to 1,000 Robots for Gaza Tunnel Operations
Translated & summarized from NEWSru Israel by baba
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are negotiating with Foundation Future Industries for up to 1,000 humanoid robots for use in Gaza's tunnels and potential combat roles. Company president Mike Leblanc met with Israeli military leaders and demonstrated the Phantom MK1 robot. The robots are designed to detect and neutralize explosives. Eric Trump, son of former U.S. President Donald Trump, is an investor and advisor in the company.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- IDF is in talks with Foundation Future Industries for up to 1,000 humanoid robots for Gaza operations.
- The robots are intended for tunnel exploration and potentially combat to reduce soldier risk.
- Company president Mike Leblanc met with Israeli military officials and demonstrated a robot in Hamas tunnels.
- Robots are claimed to be capable of detecting and disarming explosive traps.
- Eric Trump, son of former U.S. President Donald Trump, is an investor and advisor in the company.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are in negotiations with American company Foundation Future Industries to potentially acquire up to one thousand humanoid robots. These robots are intended for surveying Hamas tunnels in Gaza and could eventually be utilized in combat operations to reduce risks to soldiers. According to a report by the Financial Times, the company's president and co-founder, Mike Leblanc, met with senior Israeli military officials in September. During the visit, he demonstrated the Phantom MK1 robot within Hamas tunnels. Leblanc stated that the robots are capable of independently detecting and disarming booby traps. Negotiations are reportedly ongoing directly with the IDF Chief of Staff. The IDF referred the Financial Times' inquiry to the Israeli Ministry of Defense, which declined to comment. The Financial Times also highlighted the company's connections to the family of former U.S. President Donald Trump. Eric Trump, the former president's son, is an investor in Foundation Future Industries, holding a stake and serving as Chief since March. Leblanc mentioned that Foundation and its acquired company have received over $70 million in contracts and funding from the U.S. military. A representative for Eric Trump told the Financial Times that he does not manage the company, participate in government contract negotiations, or influence deal decisions.