SOURCE: AFI
In a significant step towards enhancing safety and efficiency in explosive ordnance disposal (EOD), the Research & Development Establishment (Engineers) [R&DE(E)] has developed an innovative Unexploded Ordnance Handling Robot (UXOR), tailored to meet the specific Qualitative Requirements (QRs) of the Indian Air Force (IAF). This robot, designed to handle and dispose of unexploded ordnance up to 1000 kg, was successfully inducted into service following rigorous field trials and technology transfer (ToT) to an Indian firm in August 2024.
The UXOR is engineered to safely handle and dispose of a wide range of unexploded ordnances, with a capacity for those weighing up to 1 tonne. This capability significantly reduces the physical risk to human operators, who previously had to approach and handle these dangerous devices manually.
Designed for remote operation, the robot ensures that EOD teams can manage threats from a safe distance, thereby minimizing exposure to potential blasts or chemical hazards. The robot is equipped with various tools and attachments, allowing it to adapt to different types of ordnance and operational environments, from urban settings to rugged terrains.
The UXOR underwent comprehensive field trials to ensure it could perform under real-world conditions, facing various types of unexploded ordnance, environmental challenges, and operational scenarios. The first unit of the UXOR was inducted into the IAF in August 2024, marking a milestone in India’s journey towards self-sufficiency in defense technology and equipment.