Aerospace, Defence & Security DECODED
Previous edition: 13 May 2024
Share article
Get the full version straight to your inbox.
Exclusive access to our best-in-class data & intelligence
Subscribe now
L3 Harris to deliver T4 bomb disposal robots for British Army
L3 Harris Technologies has secured a £21m ($26.24m) contract from the UK Ministry of Defence’s procurement arm Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) for 50 T4 bomb disposal robots.
The contract includes an initial three years of in-service maintenance and repair support.
Equipped to handle explosives and hazardous materials, the T4 bomb disposal robots have been put through rigorous testing.
L3 Harris plans to deliver the first batch of T4 robots before the end of 2024.
These units are particularly adept at navigating confined urban environments using its tough all terrain treads and adjustable manipulation arm. It can even ascend stairs, making them ideal for use in a variety of scenarios.
The T4 robots feature advanced control systems, high-definition cameras, and lightning-fast datalink, allowing operators to perform complex tasks remotely.
Furthermore, the robots can help explosives team in situations of bomb and hazardous material disposal, significantly reducing the risk to service members and civilians.
At just over 100kg, the T4 robots are smaller and more agile than the larger 300kg T7 unmanned ground vehicles, which are currently in use.
Both the T4 and T7 models incorporate 'advanced haptic feedback' technology, enabling operators to 'feel' their way through the intricate disarming process from a safe distance.
UK Defence Procurement Minister James Cartlidge said: “Procuring this high tech robot means that we can provide our forces with the tools they need to safely handle a range explosive threats.
“Rapidly delivering uncrewed systems, like the T4, that ensure our armed forces can safely face future threats is a key part of our Drone Defence Strategy.”
DE&S land equipment director Major General Lizzie Faithfull-Davies said: “The T4’s will enter service with the 29 EOD & Search Group and the Diving Threat and Exploitation Group, Royal Gibraltar Regiment and Cyprus Operational Support Unit.”
The UK government has committed to increasing defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2030, which translates to an additional £75bn investment over the next six years.
Latest news
British Army's Warrior IFV fleet drops from 708 to 632 vehicles
Vehicles currently in disposal could be used for spare parts in order to maintain over 300 Warriors being upgraded with a rear camera system.
Romania receives US approval for AIM-9X Sidewinder sale
To fortify its defence infrastructure, Romania secured approval from the United States for the acquisition of AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II missiles, signalling a deepening alliance between the two nations.
New German Navy corvette christened, boosting coastal defence
Karlsruhe's modernisation signals enhanced surveillance and engagement in coastal waters.
In our previous edition
Aerospace, Defence & Security Decoded
Thyssenkrupp protest Netherlands attack submarine contract award
10 May 2024
Aerospace, Defence & Security Decoded
UAE enhances defence arsenal with HARM missile upgrade
09 May 2024
Aerospace, Defence & Security Decoded
In data: Trends and trajectories in US defence spending
08 May 2024
Newsletters in other sectors
Aerospace, Defence & Security
Automotive
Consumer
Medical Devices
Travel and Tourism
Search companies, themes, reports, as well as actionable data & insights spanning 22 global industries
Access more premium companies when you subscribe to Explorer