Soldiers from the 23 Parachute Engineer Regiment joined forces with experts from the DE&S Expeditionary Robotics Center of Expertise (ERCoE) to test the potential use cases of the Ghost Robotics robotic dog for the British Army.
The V60 Quadruped is designed to navigate complex urban and natural terrains. Boasting a top speed of 3 m/s and a max payload of 10kg, the V60 is an agile and durable all-weather ground robot. It is equipped to deploy by parachute, helicopter, and air landing.
The bio-mechanisms of the robotic dog offer interchangeable legs and arms, with potential add-ons such as Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) imaging systems. This allows the user to map out a 3D image of their environment and assess potential dangers. The robotic dog features cameras on the front, rear and sides, offering 360-degree views. The system is controlled by an operator at all times using a control pad.
FCG are trialing both Boston Dynamics’ SPOT robotic dog and Ghost Robotics’ V60 Quadruped in several use-case areas for the frontline commands.
“In the modern battlespace, robotics are becoming increasingly important in allowing soldiers to operate faster, for longer. The Ghost V60 quadruped offers increased situational awareness for soldiers on the ground. It has the potential to act as the eyes and ears for military personnel on the frontlines – increasing accuracy in identifying and acquiring targets,” said Dave Swan, Lead Engineer, FCG Expeditionary Robotics Center of Expertise. “This offers many potential use cases for the British Army, from delivering mission-critical supplies, scoping out hazardous areas, or performing combat tasks that are deemed too dangerous for humans. Ultimately, the Ghost V60 quadruped is designed to reduce the risk-to-life and the burden on military personnel.”
