High-tech robot newest member of March Explosive Ordnance Disposal Flight

  • Published
  • By Valerie Palacios
  • 452 AMW public affairs
MARCH AIR RESERVE BASE, CALIF. --  A new member arrived at March Air Reserve Base a few weeks ago and is now a part of the 452nd Explosive Ordnance Disposal Flight. The Air Force Medium-Sized Robot, also known as Andros HD-2, is made by Remotec and will replace the previous robot used at March ARB which was the Andros F6A.

The AFMSR is not only faster and stronger, but it is also more versatile and digitally advanced. It has an improved camera, mounted on the robot, and an all-in-one control with monitoring system that displays clearer quality images. Unlike its predecessor, which used a small television monitor for viewing the not-so-clear images, this camera has the ability to pan and tilt. The control and display component is also more portable and completely digital allowing for more precise, mobile remote viewing and controlling.

Senior Master Sgt. Dale Griffin, 452nd EOD Flight, explains that transitioning to an all-digital system seems to work well with the younger Airmen because they are more familiar with the latest video game technologies which uses the same system.

The flip switches and joysticks have been replaced with a smaller remote control consisting of a series of buttons surrounding a clearer display monitor. Even the climbing capacity   has greatly improved with the ability to climb at 45 degrees.

Master Sgt. Justin Alonzo, 452nd EOD Flight, has gone through the Remotec course and is more familiar with the maintenance of these robots. He says using robots removes the direct risk EOD service members would be exposed to when responding to possible explosive devices or other dangerous situations.

The AFMSR will soon be employed against any suspect packages or suspect items that may be found on base. Although some devices are small enough to fit in a backpack and easier to use, they are not as strong as the AFMSR.

Griffin said he will not miss the fuzziness of the images from the older TV monitors.

"The clarity of the camera and monitor allows us to read things on our display such as nomenclatures and get more details from the suspect item before making a decision," he said. "Even though you can see a device, it is important to be able to read any writing or other details on it that can be used later in an investigation.

"The AFMSR, a very durable robot that can be used for reconnaissance in urban or rural areas and in most weather conditions, is capable of lifting much heavier objects than the older model.

Griffin said they can even use this robot during a hostage situation. The feature of having two-way communication between the operator and the robot allows the robot to approach a hostage situation so that the controller can talk to the hostage through the robot and receive a better visual for identification.

The EOD flight is currently undergoing training on their latest addition while they continue to use the previous model for current operations. Traditional reservists will train on this new system as they prepare for possible upcoming deployments.
 
"As long as we get everyone trained, like I know we will, it's a considerable improvement. It has greatly enhanced our capabilities," said Griffin.