A new throwable reconnaissance robot designed to scout dangerous areas before troops move in has been developed by Teledyne FLIR Defense.
The throwable robot, dubbed the FirstLook 125, is a lightweight robot designed for instant use in urban combat and tight spaces.
Source: Teledyne FLIR Defense
Weighing just 5.7 lbs, the robot can be carried by just one person and thrown through windows, doors or into debris. The FirstLook 125’s tracks enable it to move over rough terrain, stairs and collapsed buildings while simultaneously sending live video, thermal images and audio back to its operator.
The FirstLook 125 is designed to serve as the first of line of defense that is sent into dangerous or unknown areas. According to the company, the FirstLook 125 can survive drops of up to 16 ft and is capable of righting itself after landing, so operators don’t have to adjust it manually.
The robot relies on moving flippers to climb over obstacles and navigate through rubble or tight indoor spaces. Its onboard regular and infrared cameras let troops watch areas during the day or at night.
Meanwhile, built-in lights and two-way audio enable soldiers to communicate and check out areas with poor visibility, even when GPS is disabled.
“Along with our FirstLook 110 robot, the FirstLook family continues to give operators eyes, ears — and confidence — before putting personnel in harm’s way,” the developers concluded.
