A lot of questions with this movie. I did enjoy it. Watched it twice. These machines were placed underground by an unknown source but I believe I know the answer. You might call them protectors. They don't touch other living creatures who are free to roam the earth after being Depopulated by man. The killing of 90% of the human population and the forced 8000ft lvl and above is a form of population control. I believe they activated once the human race got out of control. It's really the only thing that makes sense.