Russian defense giant reveals laser-equipped robot
Russian state-owned defense conglomerate Rostec has unveiled a prototype of a small, remotely operated robot for use disarming unexploded munitions using a powerful laser beam.
The system, which has not yet been publicly named, was showcased during an industrial engineering expo in Russia's Tula Region and showcased by Rostec on Tuesday.
According to the description, the robot is designed to disable mines equipped with remote detonation fuses, which make physical handling too dangerous. The laser is reportedly powerful enough to melt the casing and liquefy the explosive materials inside.
Rostec said the robot is battery-operated and can be controlled from a distance of up to several kilometers. The system's autonomy makes it suitable for use in hazardous environments, including close to the front.
The robot is built on a tracked chassis and features an electric motor capable of reaching speeds up to 25 kilometers per hour. It is equipped with two cameras, one of which is infrared, the company said. Development has reportedly progressed to the stage where it is ready for mass production.
The United States previously employed a similar method for mine neutralization using the Zeus-HLONS system, which was mounted on a HMMWV and used a laser to heat suspicious objects from up to 200 meters away. The system was specifically designed to blow up roadside bombs without requiring soldiers to exit the vehicle and expose themselves to potential sniper fire.
While the Zeus-HLONS is no longer deployed, the underlying technology has been integrated into more recent systems, such as RADBO.
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