Northrop Grumman to provide EyeDrive mini-robot to US customers

Northrop Grumman's subsidiary, Remotec Inc, based in Clinton, Tenn, has signed an agreement with ODF Optronics Ltd, Tel Aviv, Israel, to be the exclusive worldwide manufacturer and sole provider of ODF's EyeDrive mini-robot in the United States and Canada.

EyeDrive is an observation and surveillance remote-controlled mini-robot that provides continuous real-time 360-degree audio and video surveillance. It includes a unique touchscreen operator control unit featuring ODF's proprietary Point 'n' Go navigation. This innovative system allows the user to simply touch a location on the control unit's panoramic view to direct the robot, making deployment intuitive and easy. At about 5 lb, EyeDrive can be easily carried, deployed and controlled by a single operator.

'EyeDrive is an innovative system with great synergy to our Andros product line, providing unique capabilities to our first-responder and military customers. It is lightweight and durable enough to be thrown through windows, over fences or into other hard-to-reach locations,' said Mike Knopp, president of Remotec. 'With this agreement, Northrop Grumman Remotec strengthens its lead in the US robotics market in all weight classes. Remotec and ODF are a formidable team determined to help our valued customers keep danger at a distance.'

Both Remotec and ODF Optronics produce an array of combat-proven robots.

'The EyeDrive was designed from the ground up with innovative features that meet exacting requirements and has been validated in combat with excellent user feedback,' said Josef Fishman, president and CEO of ODF Optronics. 'Remotec is a natural partner for us given their reputation for customer satisfaction and excellent performance. The agreement with Northrop Grumman is considered by ODF as a major step toward successful introduction of ODF products to the North American and global strategic markets.'