There was a contest sponsored by DARPA a couple of years ago, yes the ones who fostered internet technology, that gave a $million prize to whomever could produce an unmanned automobile through various obstacle courses. I knew right away that this was significant and profound. In the near future, "programmed" drones will be pulling eternal guard duty or "suicide" missions, completly unmanned and untended.
Imagine pushing a button from the other side of the world and a fully armed 4-wheel drive pulls out of a parking garage and goes a place of engagement. I will leave the details up to you.
Or perhaps not having any wheels.