A POLICE force is the first in the UK to trial a futuristic robot dog to hunt criminals.

The Terminator-style bot can climb stairs, see in the dark and operate in silence.

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Notts Police reckon the robo-dog could aid reconnaissance in armed sieges, hostage situations and chemical and biological incidents.

It is remote-controlled, can recognise weapons, scan its surroundings and has a loudspeaker to issue commands to suspects.

The device, funded by the office of the Chief Scientific Adviser, is under trial.

If results are positive, other forces will get them from next year.

Inventor Nathan Wallace, 22, of Gedling, Notts, said: “It can be used like a land-based drone.

“It has an AI camera which can detect weapons — handguns, knives, baseball bats.”

Supt Louise Clarke said: “It’s not hard to see how this technology can and will be used in the future to protect and serve the public.

“In the right circumstances this equipment can enhance officer and public safety.”

The force said there were no plans to fit the robot with weapons or replace police dogs.