Arms manufacturer KNDS France has recently secured a contract with the US Special Forces to deliver ten of its state-of-the-art NERVA-LG multi-purpose robots. This innovative platform is designed to enhance reconnaissance and operational support capabilities for military missions.
The NERVA-LG is distinguished by its lightweight and mobile design, tailored to execute a variety of tasks such as remote observation, situational detection, and electronic jamming. Its construction allows it to navigate through challenging terrains, making it effective in hostile environments that may involve threats such as improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and potential chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear hazards. Built to withstand extreme conditions, the robot is ultra-robust, shock-resistant, and waterproof.
One of the key features of the NERVA-LG is its “one-click system,” enabling operators to make swift and straightforward adjustments to the robot’s configuration. The battery can be swapped out with just a click, various mission-specific equipment can be integrated seamlessly, and the robot’s wheels or tracks can be reconfigured without any tools, enhancing its versatility.
Weighing in at a compact 5 kilograms (11 pounds), the NERVA-LG is designed for easy deployment by both mounted and dismounted personnel. It comes equipped with semi-autonomous waypoint navigation capabilities, allowing it to follow predetermined paths while offering operators the flexibility to intervene as needed.
In terms of communication, the robot operates effectively at distances exceeding 1,000 meters (3,281 feet) in optimal conditions when there’s a clear line of sight. However, in more complicated environments like dense forests, this range diminishes to approximately 500 meters (1,640 feet) and could shrink further in urban settings.
The NERVA-LG features a high-definition front camera with a resolution of 1280×720 pixels, equipped with infrared sensitivity and high-powered illumination, which enables operations in low-light situations. Additionally, it integrates a virtual pan-and-tilt functionality that allows for electronic movement simulation, providing an extensive 120-degree horizontal field of view (FOV) and a 60-degree vertical FOV for efficient monitoring.
Furthermore, the robot is equipped with three standard cameras located on the left, right, and rear, each offering a resolution of 320×240 pixels. These cameras provide a 360-degree FOV, with each camera having a 90-degree horizontal FOV and a 71-degree vertical FOV, ensuring comprehensive surveillance capabilities.
This contract marks a significant advancement in robotic support for military operations, providing the US Special Forces with a cutting-edge tool designed to enhance safety and effectiveness in complex environments.
