Robots put to test for naval maintenance, inspection and repair
The remote-controlled Guardian DX Teleoperated Dexterous Robot mimics the upper body of a human being. (Photo: Naval Surface Warfare Center)
Sarcos Technology and Robotics Corporation has demonstrated a range of robotic technologies improving worker safety and shipyard productivity. The company’s systems are designed to carry out shipyard tasks on and around vessels underway or pier-side.
In September, Sarcos conducted a USN field trial (Repair Technology Exercise or REPTX) at Naval Base Ventura County, California, using the Guardian DX teleoperated dexterous robot, Sapien 6M dexterous robot, Sapien Sea Class underwater robot and Guardian remote visual inspection robot.
The Sapien 6M and Guardian DX robots can be mounted on mobile lift platforms to undertake visual inspections, remove rust and paint using existing off-the-shelf tools.
The Sapien Sea Class underwater robot is designed for shallow and deep-water operation to inspect ship hulls, propeller shafts, and ship aspects below the water line.
Finally, the Guardian S robot can traverse ferromagnetic vertical surfaces and is deployed inside and outside a ship to identify foreign objects.
'It is imperative for the US Navy to find solutions that will enable us to maintain mission readiness, particularly while at sea,' said Janice Bryant, expeditionary and sustainment technology manager, Naval Sea Systems Command. 'The technologies demonstrated at REPTX for ship inspection, sustainment and repair using tele-operated at-height capabilities will have a significant benefit to increase navy readiness.'
More from Defence Notes
-
UK Chancellor commits £2 billion to make the country a “defence industrial superpower”
Rachel Reeves announced port upgrades, protected budgets for innovation and investment in novel technologies.
-
Avalon 2025: Australian defence budget meets the low expectations of show attendees
The Australian Budget was marked by tax cuts and a looming general election which led to little hope that there would be a substantial defence boost even with a big bill for nuclear submarines due.
-
Launch of Gilat Defense targets DoD market
The communications company Gilat launched its new Gilat Defense division at the Satellite 2025 expo, with future solutions aimed at US military customers.
-
Collins MAPS Gen II to equip US DoD watercraft
US services have already conducted multiple tests with military maritime systems fitted with the system.
-
OCCAR expects substantial boost in programme numbers “in the coming months”
Europe’s Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) “has to establish itself…as a centre of excellence for cooperative Defence Equipment Programmes” in the face of growing threats and the need for rearmament, according to the organisation’s chairman.
-
MBDA CEO emphasises “moment of truth” for Europe as company sees €37 billion backlog
MBDA CEO Éric Béranger stressed the company’s role supporting European countries with complex weapon systems and focused on boosting production against the backdrop of “shifting” geopolitical alliances.