Boeing and iRobot Corp. have joined hands to build up a novel, next-generation small unmanned ground vehicle (SUGV) for militia, civilian and commercial usage. Weighing less than 30 pounds, the SUGV Early is much smaller than those Packbots, which are currently deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan to detect mines and dig out roadside and car bombs.
The SUGV Early will boast a video camera and commercial electro-optics, infrared sensors, and a track-driven chassis that will allow it to withstand rough locations. It will be employed for bomb disposal and disaster relief operations. The new SUGV Early is expected to be ready to hit the battlefield in 2008.
Via: Crave
