iRobot Corp. announced that Congress appropriated $2 million to further develop the company’s Warrior 700, a powerful and rugged robot for use in danger zones and inaccessible areas.

“This funding will allow iRobot to expand its product line, which continues to evolve as the need for unmanned ground vehicles grows worldwide,” said Joe Dyer, president of iRobot Government and Industrial Robots.

Melissa Wagoner, a spokeswoman for Senator Ted Kennedy (D-Mass.), said that projects such as iRobot’s “will enhance Massachusetts’ role as a leader in the defense industry,” and added: “Our courageous men and women serving overseas deserve the very best protection our nation can provide.” Sen. Kennedy, Massachusetts’ Sen. John Kerry and Congressman John Tierney championed the appropriations.

Recognizing the importance of unmanned systems in the reduction of soldier casualties, Congress increased funding to speed the development of unmanned aerial vehicles and unmanned ground vehicles as part of the Consolidated Security, Disaster Assistance, and Continuing Appropriations Act, 2009.

The iRobot Warrior will perform a variety of critical missions, including providing real-time video, audio and sensor readings to combat troops and local law-enforcement SWAT teams. The robot will feature an advanced digital architecture and a multi-mission chassis that supports up to 150-pound (68 kg) payloads.

iRobot Warrior’s unique payload-positioning system allows radical changes in the robot’s center of gravity for unprecedented mobility in rough terrain, while still suitable for use in an urban environment. The first production units of iRobot Warrior will be available for purchase in the third quarter of 2009.

iRobot has delivered more than 2,000 PackBot robots that make a difference everyday by conducting dangerous missions that keep warfighters out of harm's way.

iRobot
17.11.2008