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MC LEAN, Va., 30 Nov. 2008. QinetiQ North America's Technology Solutions Group in McLean, Va., has launched its Dragon Runner small unmanned ground vehicle (SUGV) for quick reconnaissance and improvised explosive device (IED) disarmament.
Based on a robot originally for the U.S. Marine Corps, the modular ground robot system weighs less than 20 pounds and can be carried by one person in a standard-issue pack, and has field-transformable features that quickly snap or bolt into place.
Dragon Runner SUGV can adapt to fit mission scenarios such as reconnaissance inside buildings, sewers, drainpipes, caves and courtyards; perimeter security using on-board motion and sound detectors; checkpoint security; in-vehicle and under-vehicle inspections; and hostage barricade reconnaissance and negotiation.
Operators of Dragon Runner SUGV have the ability to add tracks for maximum mobility and a manipulator arm with rotating shoulder, wrist, and grippers for dexterity. In addition, day and night pan/tilt/zoom cameras, motion detectors, and a listening capability are included.
Additionally, Dragon Runner SUGV, gives operators field-changeable frequency capabilities, using analogue or digital radio options. Standard vehicle and operator control unit batteries mean that troops can use available government inventory for reduced cost and improved sustainability, making Dragon Runner SUGV even easier to integrate into current missions.
"We've created a lightweight, modular robot that can climb stairs, open doors, provide critical reconnaissance information and disarm IEDs," says William Ribich, president of the Technology Solutions Group of QinetiQ North America. "When Dragon Runner SUGV takes a hit, that means at least one soldier or marine was kept from harm."
For more information contact QinetiQ North America online at www.qinetiq-na.com.
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