Researchers at MIT have developed FloatForm, a system of autonomous robotic boats that self-assemble into larger floating structures and can later separate to form new ones. Each robot measures 21 centimeters on each side and includes electric thrusters, onboard sensors, computing hardware, and a magnetic docking mechanism. The robots make most navigation and coordination decisions locally, communicating only with nearby neighbors, while a lightweight central planner assigns each robot its final position. This decentralized approach makes the system more scalable than traditional robotic swarms, allowing dozens or eventually hundreds of robots to move simultaneously without overwhelming control software. In demonstrations, groups of eight robots repeatedly assembled into a predefined structure, disconnected on command, reconfigured into a different shape, and moved together as a single floating platform. The docking mechanism uses an origami-inspired internal structure driven by a single servo motor that pushes or retracts permanent magnets on all four sides, locking neighbors together across gaps of up to 15 centimeters, with a mechanical gearbox securing the connection without continuous battery power. The design was inspired by fire ants, which form floating rafts during floods without centralized control. Although developed for civilian infrastructure, the technology has potential defense and homeland security applications, such as rapidly creating temporary floating docks, bridges, or logistics platforms during military operations or disaster response.