Nottinghamshire Police force's robot dog. (Nottinghamshire Police via SWNS)

By Adam Dutton

A police force is the first in the United Kingdom to trial a futuristic robot dog to hunt criminals.

Nottinghamshire Police say the remote-controlled robo-dog - which can climb stairs and see in the dark - could be in service next year.

The robots can operate in complete silence and feature hi-tech thermal imaging cameras.

Police chiefs hope they will be able to quickly scan entrances and exits of buildings during armed sieges or hostage situations.

The Terminator-style bot even has weapon recognition capabilities and will be training with the force's firearms unit.

(Nottinghamshire Police via SWNS) By Talker

The device is funded by the Office of the Chief Scientific Adviser and will

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