New Technology to Neutralise Improvised Explosive Devices

The Minister for Defence Science and Personnel the Hon. Warren Snowdon MP, today unveiled a new robot called SPIKER designed to counter improvised explosive devices (IED).>> The robot has been developed by the Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DSTO) and was demonstrated at the Land Warfare Conference in Brisbane.>> Innovations like this robot are part of DSTOs program to support our troops on operation in various theatres, particularly in the Middle East, Mr Snowdon said.>> SPIKER, Special Purpose IED Killer Experimental Robot, is a remotely controlled tracked vehicle which deploys a number of different devices, including explosives, to render IEDs safe.>> Also on display was another remotely controlled vehicle known as RASP (Remote Advanced Sensor Platform) which DSTO has developed to identify radioactive threats from a distance.>> These technologies are vital for carrying out dirty and dangerous work and helping to save the lives of our soldiers, Mr Snowdon said.>> He said industry was also making innovative contributions to support soldiers through the Capability and Technology Demonstrator (CTD) Program.>> Two technologies developed under the program and displayed at the conference included flexible solar panels to generate power during operations in the field; and a smart power management system which provides a miniature energy source for multiple devices carried by soldiers, so they can operate more effectively over longer periods with less weight.>> These are only some examples of innovative technologies that can be achieved when DSTO and industry work together to enhance Defence capability in priority areas, Mr Snowdon said.