‘Quantum leap’: Australia unveils remote ‘bomb robots’ with 360° rotating claws

Security forces across the globe are acquiring advanced smart robots to help them with surveillance and bomb or hazardous material disposal activities.

In May, the British Army confirmed its plans to include one of the most advanced and capable bomb disposal robots. The T4 from L3Harris Technologies is a medium-sized robot with haptic feedback, which lets operators feel the robotic arm’s touch for better precision and control.

Now, the Queensland Police Service (QPS) in Australia has introduced five new Remote Positioning Vehicles-Medium (RPV-M), also known as “bomb robots,” which greatly improve the agency’s explosive ordnance response capabilities.

“They keep our people safe by enabling remote inspections via video or X-ray, providing manipulator arms, and rendering safe tools to handle hazardous items,” said Tony Montgomery-Clarke, Acting Superintendent in QPS, in a statement .

Enhanced EOD Capabilities

QPS selected a Canada-based firm, ICOR Technology’s Caliber Flex bomb robot, after an extensive and competitive tender and evaluation process with five different robots.

According to the agency, the selection is part of the QPS Remote Positioning Vehicles (RPV) Replacement Program, a $2.6 million investment that will bring new technology and benefits to replace the aging fleet that has been in service for the past 12 years.

The Caliber Flex, the most advanced robot in the Caliber family in ICOR, has an 80-lb (36-kg) lift capacity.

The robot is controlled by a Command Control Unit (CCU) and has a 3D avatar that gives positional feedback in real-time. A variable-speed joystick, high-quality mesh COFDM IP Radio System, and multifunction controls are also included. The latter enables data streaming.

It is powered by quick-change, rechargeable lead-acid batteries and features a 360° rotating claw with a 10″ (25 cm) gripper opening. It can lift up to 80 lbs (36 kg).

The robot is designed for missions lasting 2-4+ hours. It can climb 8” (20 cm) stairs at a 45° angle and is environmentally sealed to IP65 standards with chemical and biological wash-down capability.

According to ICOR, these features enable simultaneous operations, making the robot a versatile and efficient tool for complex tasks.

“These robots enhance Queensland’s Bomb Response capabilities, allowing us to remotely approach, investigate, and neutralize real and suspected IEDs, as well as Chemical, Biological, or Radiological (CBR) devices,” said Montgomery-Clarke.

Enhanced EORT capabilities

Over the past month, bomb technicians from QPS’ Explosive Ordnance Response Team (EORT) and Regional Bomb Response Teams (RBRT) have undergone comprehensive training to master the operation of advanced bomb robots.

According to officers, the new technology offers several crucial advantages, enabling technicians to remotely approach, investigate, and safely neutralize real and suspected improvised explosive devices.

Additionally, these robots are capable of handling chemical, biological, or radiological devices, allowing for safe exploitation and neutralization. “As we respond to bomb response incidents, we will deploy remote positioning vehicles or bomb robots to keep bomb technicians safe,” said Mark Smith, Explosive Ordnance Response Team Officer in Charge at QPS.

Beyond these core functions, the robots serve as delivery platforms in tactically dangerous situations, providing support to police tactical groups and negotiators.

They also assist other government agencies, including the Queensland Fire Department and the Australian Defence Force, in enhancing overall public safety and security capabilities.

The new RPV-Ms formally went into service on July 12, 2024. Three robots have been strategically placed in the Far Northern Region, Northern Region, and Central Region; two will stay in Brisbane.