The French defense procurement agency (DGA) has awarded UNAC a contract to supply up to 34 explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) robots for the French Army, under the ROBIN (ROBot INvestigation) program. The initiative aims to equip the Army’s engineering regiments with heavy robotic platforms capable of reconnaissance and operations in high-risk environments, enhancing both force protection and operational efficiency.
The selected platform is based on UNAC’s Fardier all-terrain vehicle, already in use with French special forces and airborne units. The robotic variant will support a payload of 900 kilograms (1,984 pounds), which increases by an additional 400 kilograms (882 pounds) when paired with a trailer. Designed for remote operation, the robot can be controlled from several hundred meters away, allowing soldiers to inspect and neutralize explosives without direct exposure.
Key to the ROBIN platform is a 1,500-kilogram articulated arm capable of lifting up to 120 kilograms (265 pounds) at a height of 3.8 meters (12 feet). The arm integrates a multifunctional toolkit, including a gripper, grid, and air blow gun, alongside cameras and sensors to provide operators with full situational awareness. This combination of mobility and dexterity enables the French Army to safely investigate explosives and navigate challenging terrain.
Safran Electronics & Defense will oversee the robotization of the Fardier, covering hardware integration and software development, including vehicle control, human-machine interfaces, and data-flow management. UNAC will handle the overall system design, assembly, and integration, ensuring seamless translation of operator commands into precise mechanical actions, creating a highly capable EOD platform for France’s modernized engineering units.
