Talos
In Greek mythology, Talos was a bronze automaton whom Zeus gave to Europa. He was forged by Hephaestus and the Cyclopes. Europa took him to Crete and he stayed there, circling the island's shore three times daily while guarding it. He threw stones at any approaching ship. Talos is said to have heated himself red-hot and clasped strangers in his embrace as soon as they landed on the island.Talos had one vein which went from his neck to his ankle, bound shut by only one bronze nail. The Argo, containing Jason and the Argonauts, approached Crete after obtaining the Golden Fleece. Medea cast a spell on Talos to calm him; she removed the bronze nail and Talos bled to death. The Argo landed.
Apollodorus. Bibliotheke I, 26; Apollonius Rhodius. Argonautica IV, 1638-93
E. Pottier, who does not dispute the historical personality of Minos, in view of the story of Phalaris considers it probable that in Crete (where a bull-cult may have existed by the side of that of the double axe) victims were tortured by being shut up in the belly of a red-hot brazen bull.
That would be also the origin of the myth of the Minotaur.Interpretation
A political interpretation of the myth tells that Talos is the Minoan fleet armed with metallic weapons.
When the Greeks from the Argo defeat him, the power of Crete vanishes.