L3Harris Micreo to manufacture bomb disposal robots

L3Harris Micreo is to manufacture 80 new explosive ordnance disposal robots (pictured) for the Australian Defence Force under a just signed, $46 million contract with the federal government.

The Queensland company, formed in 2002 as part of the global L3Harris defence business, will provide robots that carry cameras and sensors with an improved ability to find, examine and neutralise improvised explosive devices and explosive hazards.

The technology will keep Australian personnel as safe as possible when operating in the field, replacing the current in-service robots, which were used in the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts, according to a statement.

The Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy made the announcement on a visit to Cairns, where he inspected Cairns shipyards – Canberra has made a $150 million investment in the Cairns Marine Precinct.

Conroy said: “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.

“A genuine partnership between the Government and defence industry companies, including in Queensland, will be critical.

“The new robots for the Australian Defence Force, to be made in Queensland, are an example of building our local industry and workforce on innovative technologies.”

Picture: Defence/Explosive Ordnance Disposal Robot