Robotics

Dragon Runner 10 joins QinetiQ’s micro unmanned robot family

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QinetiQ's DR10 is intended for military and first responder duties
The Dragon Runner 10 can be fitted with tracks or wheels dependent on terrain
The DR10 can be fitted with a robotic arm
The DR10 is small and light enough to be carried in a backpack
The DR10 can be used to remotely set counter-IED charges
QinetiQ's DR10 is intended for military and first responder duties
QinetiQ's new DR10 MUGV
QinetiQ's new DR10 MUGV
QinetiQ's new DR10 can support small military units and patrols
QinetiQ's new DR10 MUGV
QinetiQ's new DR10 MUGV
View gallery - 10 images

QinetiQ North America has unveiled its latest Micro Unmanned Ground Vehicle (MUGV) based on its Dragon Runner platform. The new Dragon Runner 10 (DR10) is built around the basic Dragon Runner design and is intended for military and first responder duties. At just 15 inches (38 cm) long, 13.5 inches (34 cm) wide and 5.8 inches (15 cm) tall, and weighing just under 10 pounds (4.5 kg), the DR10 is small and light enough to be carried in a standard-issue pack and be thrown into buildings and hostile environments for reconnaissance and surveillance missions.

With the ability to carry payloads of up to five pounds (2.3 kg), the DR10 is compatible with DR20 payloads and can be fitted with a variety of sensors, radios, cameras and a robotic arm. Its day and night sensors allow it serve as a team's forward eyes and ears, while also delivering remote sensors, setting counter-IED charges, gathering intelligence and conducting surveillance. It is controlled by a wearable controller at distances of up to 2,130 feet (650 m) and can be fitted with tracks or wheels dependent on the terrain to be covered.

QinetiQ's new DR10 MUGV

When thrown, the DR10 has the ability to automatically flip video images, antennae and controls upon landing and it will travel at speeds of 4 mph (6.4 km/h) on slopes of up to 45°. Its standard battery will provide up to two hours of power, which can be supplemented by an external battery pack to provide over six hours of operation and a quick in-service recharge capability.

QinetiQ says the DR10 is suited for supporting small military units and patrols, as well as assisting first responder teams.

View gallery - 10 images
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2 comments
Will, the tink
Small devices like this plus the rc airplanes can and do save lives. I applaud the makers of these devices and the willingness of our military to think \"out of the box\". If it saves even one life, it\'s worth it and also, this technology is not that expensive.
Samantha Renault
Military plans on replacing 1/3 of ground forces with robots by 2015. No shortage of ambition there. But will there be a shortage of funds considering the general publics increasing frustration with a bloated military budget?