ThrowflameA flamethrowing robot dog is now available for purchase in the US for less than $10,000. The “Thermonator” is a 20-inch tall quadruped capable of hurling gasoline or napalm-fueled flames up to 30 feet. It is also legal in 48 US states. The first-ever flamethrower-wielding robot canine costs $9,420 and is controlled via a smartphone app, with a first-person view camera. Flamethrowers are not specifically regulated in states other than Maryland and California, and are not considered firearms by the federal government. Its possible applications include “wildfire control and prevention,” “snow and ice removal,” and “entertainment and SFX,” according to its manufacturer Throwflame. “But most of all,” Ars Technica noted, “it sets things on fire.” |