The French defense procurement agency, DGA, has made a significant move in advancing the capabilities of the French Army by selecting local firm UNAC to supply up to 34 explosive ordnance disposal robots. This decision comes under the ROBIN (ROBot INvestigation) program, designed to enhance the French Army’s engineering regiments with a versatile robotic platform intended for conducting reconnaissance and operating in high-risk environments.
UNAC emerged victorious in securing this critical contract, standing out among a competitive field of established land defense industry players such as Arquus, KNDS, and Soframe. While specific details about the contract are limited, a tender released by the DGA in April outlines some noteworthy specifications for the robots. Each unit will weigh around 1,500 kilograms (3,307 pounds) and must be operable remotely from a distance of several hundred meters. Additionally, these robots will feature an investigative arm equipped with multifunction tools.
The robotic arm is engineered to handle a lifting capacity of up to 120 kilograms (265 pounds) at a height of 3.8 meters (12 feet). Furthermore, it will come equipped with integrated observation cameras and specialized tools, including a gripper, grids, and an air blow gun. This array of tools is designed for a critical function: after detecting a potentially dangerous buried object, the ROBIN system can remove the material concealing it, facilitating observation and initial analysis. Should it be necessary, the robot can relocate these objects, effectively clearing the path for safe exploration.
Another critical requirement outlined in the tender is that the robot must be towable by a Griffon-type armored personnel carrier, covering distances of several hundred meters at speeds reaching up to 30 kilometers (18.64 miles) per hour.
UNAC has indicated that the platform being developed is based on their existing Fardier, an air-droppable all-terrain vehicle that is already deployed with French special forces and airborne units. The Fardier boasts a payload capacity of 900 kilograms (1,984 pounds), with an additional capability of hauling up to 400 kilograms (882 pounds) when towing a trailer.
The integration of robotics into the Fardier will be managed by Safran Electronics & Defense, who will focus on both the hardware and software aspects, including the vehicle control systems, human-machine interface, and data flow management. Meanwhile, UNAC will oversee the comprehensive design, manufacture, and assembly of the entire system, which encompasses the robot platform, articulated arm, tools, mobility components, and the overall control architecture. Their expertise will be essential in translating command inputs into effective mechanical actions in operational scenarios.
This initiative marks a step forward in modernizing the French Army’s capabilities, particularly in dealing with explosive threats. The investment reflects a broader trend towards the use of robotic technology in military applications, underlining the importance of innovative solutions in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of military operations.
