Med-Eng launches Avenger UGV

Med-Eng has launched a new UGV to assist bomb technicians and military explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) teams in defeating threats, the company announced on 19 January.

The tactical UGV, named Avenger, provides response teams with a tool to manage threats in urban environments, where car bombs are of concern.

The UGV, manufactured by ICP NewTech, has a dextrous arm and claw that can reach inside, above and below cars, pick-up trucks and delivery vans to remotely investigate suspicious devices, such as improvised explosive devices.

Avenger uses an on-board computer that fuses data from multiple chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive (CBRNE) sensors and cameras and relays it to a command post.

This integrated sensor provides a mission-critical tool for managing CBRNE and hazmat threats, and mitigating risks to the public. The numerous sensor ports are compatible with many specialised sensors that bomb squads already use, allowing them to make use of their equipment and attach new tools in the future.

Rob Reynolds, general manager of Med-Eng, said: ‘The Avenger combines the mobility and ease of deployment advantages of a mid-sized robot with the reach, lift and sensor-fusion capabilities of bigger platforms. We have been extremely impressed by its performance, technology integration and reliability, and firmly believe it will be readily embraced by bomb squads and EOD teams worldwide looking for a highly effective and affordable robot in a smaller size.’