What's next for the Pentagon after the Replicator programme?
Although the Replicator initiative has made several accomplishments, there are still multiple gaps to plug across the US Department of Defense (DoD) and its services.
Remotec to upgrade US military EOD robots
Remotec will repair and upgrade 103 MK3 Series Remote Ordnance Neutralizations Systems (RONS) for the US Navy under an $8.8 million contract announced on 13 August. The IDIQ contract has a potential value of more than $12 million if contract options are exercised.
The work will see the capabilities of the RONS explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) robots increased and their availability improved. Remotec will provide depot level repair support; upgrade both the MK3 Mod 0 and Mod 1 version systems; and implement government-approved configuration management changes and engineering enhancements.
The RONS robotic system provides US Army and Marine Corps EOD teams the capability to safely and remotely gain site access and perform missions including reconnaissance, diagnosis, render-safe procedures and disposal of ordnance and improvised explosive devices.
The system consists of a chassis with articulators and wheels for excellent mobility, a powerful manipulator, as many as five cameras and an operator control unit. The vehicle can be controlled by either fibre optic cable or a radio.
James Heverin, director, Northrop Grumman Remotec, said: ‘Remotec is pleased to build upon the relationship we have had with the navy since 1988 and proud to continue providing unmanned ground vehicle capabilities that keep our military bomb techs safe.
‘As we plan for the next-generation of military EOD robots, we can continue to provide RONS with new capabilities to meet evolving threats well into the future. Without a doubt, everyone's aim is ensuring our bomb techs have the best equipment possible to keep danger at a distance.’
The contract also includes the option to purchase a new RONS robot under a separate contract if upgrades or repairs are not economical.
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