IDEX 2011: UK to test UGV for compound operations in Afghanistan

Source www.recon-scout.com

February 20, 2011 SHEPARD GROUP

The UK's Ministry of Defence (MoD) has procured a number of ReconRobotics' Scout XT UGVs ahead of an evaluation programme in Afghanistan. Speaking to Unmanned Vehicles at the IDEX in Abu Dhabi, ReconRobotics officials said the UK's Operational Training Advisory Group (OPTAG) had taken delivery of four systems for 'compound clearance operations'. Defence sources added that the procurement formed part of the MoD's 'Valkyrie' programme which is designed to increase the effectiveness of the army's ISTAR capabilities at 'low levels'. Scout XT, which weighs a total of 1.3lbs, comprises a day camera or IR payload and can be thrown over compound walls or driven into rooms for reconnaissance of an area before troops enter a position. They are accompanied by extending poles allowing the camera to be handheld over a wall or obstruction. The UGVs can then relay video feed up to 100 feet indoors or 300 feet outdoors, according to the company. Already in use with US armed forces in Afghanistan, including US Navy Seals who have acquired around 350 Scout IR systems, the Scout XT models were purchased following successful trials during the UK's URBEX (Urban Exercise) on Salisbury Plain last year.