Early models were simply super-heavy tanks controlled by programming intended to reduce the need for a human crew through automation. However, as the programming increased in complexity, Bolos became more effective at mimicking intelligence, and finally self-aware. Later models were controlled by artificial intelligences.
The first Bolo was developed in the late 20th/early 21st century by the (fictional) Bolo Division of General Motors.[1] As humanity spread beyond Earth, Bolos followed to protect the Empire, and later the Concordiat.
For millennia they provided the bulwark of humanity's defenses, participating in numerous wars against various aliens, most notably the Deng and the Melconians in the 30th century. After the end of the Final War with the Melconians, surviving Bolos became crucial in sheltering and protecting the few scattered remnants of humanity while the long slow process of survival and rebuilding began.
Bolos are assigned to the Dinochrome Brigade, which traces its lineage back to various units on Earth, although individual Bolos are occasionally detached to serve with Planetary Siege Regiments.
At a certain phase of their evolution, Bolo psychotronic design[citation needed] was greatly influenced by the ideal of "the perfect knight" or "knight errant". However later models incorporated circuitry capable of directly interfacing with a feral human mind, and so failed to live up to the ideal.
Bolos were designed to be invincible, i.e., to be able to withstand the dominant weapons platforms of their day, but also completely loyal to humanity. Their psychotronic brains were rigorously tested before being installed into a suitable body. Bolos are programmed to avoid killing humans unless by explicit order of their human commanders. One of the greatest fears of humans is that a Bolo's programming will become corrupted and will go rogue.
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---i love sci-fi as much as the next guy, but when i look to the sky, i just see I.
