Bomb-detonating robots.

• Position: Hit

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* It is hard, if not impossible, to find an explosive ordnance disposal specialist who doesn't appreciate this technology. Bomb squad robots were deployed shortly after the beginning of the Iraq conflict. For the EOD crews, it was a far better alternative than donning a bomb suit and walking down range in 110-degree heat to face an improvised explosive device, and possible booby-traps and snipers. The Navy had large, cumbersome EOD robots on hand, but something more nimble and easily transportable was needed as the roadside bomb became the Iraqi insurgent's weapon of choice.

Three small, lightweight remotely controlled robots that could be easily transported and unloaded from humvees were sped into the field. One model, manufactured by Allen-Vanguard Inc., didn't perform well, and was pulled out of Iraq. Foster-Miller's Talon, and iRobot's Packbot, remained, though, and began proving their worth...