The Australian government has announced a $19 million investment in multiple companies for technology protecting Australian Defence Force members. As part of this, Reach Robotics Pty Ltd has been awarded $1.04 million to develop remote operation systems for underwater expeditions as part of this investment. The investment will allow the company to fast-track innovation on its world-first remote intervention manipulator systems. Ultimately, these systems will protect ADF members in the field.
Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price announced the Defence Innovation Hub grants that demonstrate the Australian government’s drive to invest in advanced Australian research and development to protect and sustain ADF personnel. “I am delighted to see this investment in businesses and a research organisation to help Defence harness cutting-edge capabilities that could help protect and sustain ADF personnel in the field,” Minister Price said
Under this defence contract, Reach Robotics will deliver novel manipulator and vision systems for a portable Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV). Such a system will be able to complete some of the taskings currently reserved for human clearance divers, improving operational efficiency and safety for Navy operators.
“We are very excited to receive this investment from the Australian Government. Reach Robotics has been working with various military stakeholders in Australia, the US, and the UK for many years and it is an honour to have this official backing from Defence. This contract will enable us to fast-track our technology developments and more quickly contribute to our vision to enable remote intervention in harsh environments in the realm of the Clearance Diver remit.” Anders Ridley-Smith, Director – Business Development
Reach Robotics has its headquarters and manufacturing facility in Sydney, Australia. The company creates advanced robotic arm solutions for harsh environments which enable complex inspection and intervention in maritime infrastructure management (UWILD, NDT, CVI, Sampling), military/police operations (Special Recovery), marine science, autonomous robotics research applications, and more.
