The government of Australia signed a $46 million contract in an effort to enhance its disposal robots. Australia and L3Harris Micreo's deal aims to develop new bomb disposal robots that will see up to 80 new explosive ordinance robots, made for defense personnel of the country.
Developing New Bomb Disposal Robots
Australian Department of Defence has signed a contract with L3Harris Micreo to see up to 80 new explosive ordnance disposal robots for Australia's defense personnel, including sailors, soldiers, and aviators. According to Interesting Engineering, the contract costs AU$ 46 million (US$ 30 million).
This will be equipped with cameras and sensors to help the machine determine, examine, and find explosive devices and hazards. Once the robots have been finished developing, the new technology will replace the current in-service robots and will operate in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars to ensure the safety of the Australian military personnel while disarming bombs.
During a visit to Cairns, Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy announced the partnership and noted the details regarding the government's newest deal with L3Harris Micreo. He stated this effort comes as the government reshapes and modernizes the Defence Force as a preparation for the strategic circumstances that they are facing.
"As the Defence Strategic Review makes clear, we need to improve the Defence Force's ability to operate from Australia's northern bases, which includes Cairns. This is an example of building our local industry and workforce on innovative technologies," he added. The robots will be made in Queensland, Australia.
Strengthening Australia's Bases
ADM reported that the Australian government has been investing $3.8 billion for the last four years. This is an effort of the government to strengthen the country's northern bases as a response to the Defence Strategic Review, including upgrades, developments of critical bases, and estate investments.
As per Queensland Senator Nita Green, Far North Queensland is the gateway to the Pacific, and she sees great for the government to be committed to improving its defense capabilities as the Australian Defence Force moves forward with technology.
She said that she is pleased to have Minister Conroy in Cairns as he tours their shipyards and highlighted the government's recent investment in the Cairns Marine Precinct. "It's an exciting time for the future of our region and I couldn't be prouder to be part of the government delivering it," the senator added.
Last August, L3Harris was chosen by the United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) for its Armerd Overwatch Program. The Sky Warden-System combined AT-802U with Air Tractor and delivered 75 manned aircraft at an initial total of $170 million. This highlighted several performance metrics and design concepts that underpin their aircraft.
Although the contract's initial state maintains $170 million, the Armed Overwatch program contract has a cost ceiling of $3 billion to be scooped in the long run if the government sees the need to increase its costs.
