Dragon Runner Robot Supports Military Troops
Qinetiq has been awarded a contract to supply almost 100 Dragon Runner robots, associated spares and technical services to support of current military operations in Afghanistan. Dragon Runner is a small, rugged robot that weighs between 10-20kg depending on the chosen configuration. It can be carried by a soldier in a backpack and is robust enough to operate in rough terrain to help protect troops. The variant selected by the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) is equipped with a manipulator arm to assist with the disarming of improvised explosive devices, but the Dragon Runner platform can also be configured for a variety of other reconnaissance and surveillance operations. The robot is also able to operate in sewers, drainpipes, caves and courtyards. Already being deployed, the Dragon Runner has the ability to send video footage back to the operator at a safe distance, thereby enabling troops to assess a situation prior to moving forward or entering a structure, potentially safeguarding li...