The Joint Improvised Explosive Device Defeat Organization (JIEDDO) has selected QinetiQ North America’s Dragon Runner 10 (DR10) in response to a Joint Urgent Operations Needs Statement (JUONS) for throwable, lightweight, robots. The order denotes the first major US military procurement of this novel kind of robot.
The DR10 is suitable for surveillance and reconnaissance missions to support patrols, first responder teams and small military units. It has payload options and multiple cameras and weighs just 10 pounds, The DR10 is compact and can be easily fitted in an assault pack yet it is robust enough to be thrown into hostile environments. It can carry important payloads, climb stairs and sustain efficient wireless communication across long distances.
The DR10 is thrown into possible hostile surroundings to review situations from a distance before sending war personnel, By utilizing day and night sensors, it offers instant situational awareness by sending visual reports to the operator, This micro robot, with the help of optional accessories, can even perform other important missions like delivering remote sensors and counter-IED charges.
As per the JIEDDO order, QinetiQ North America will deliver the DR10 robots and spare components at a contract worth $5.3 million. Initial shipment was done within a month of the contract award and follow-on shipment will continue till early spring 2012.
Numerous payloads such as cameras, radios, sensors and robotic arms are available. The DR10 can be integrated with wheeled or track mobility choices to navigate different types of terrain. When the robot is thrown, it can automatically flip antennae, video images and controls upon landing. The DR10 measures 15”, 13.5”, and 5.8” in length, width and height, respectively.
QinetiQ North America, a subsidiary of QinetiQ Group, is a pioneer in robotic technology solutions.
Source: http://www.qinetiq-na.com