The Queensland Police Service (QPS) has significantly upgraded its explosive ordnance response capabilities by introducing five new Remote Positioning Vehicles-Medium (RPV-M), commonly known as "bomb robots". This enhancement is part of the QPS RPV Replacement Program, representing a $2.6 million investment to replace the existing fleet that has served for the past 12 years and offering new technology with a myriad of benefits
After a rigorous and competitive tender and evaluation process involving five different robots, the ICOR Technology Caliber Flex bomb robot was selected. This state-of-the-art equipment is supplied by EPE Trusted to Protect, an Australian Veteran-owned company.
Over the past month, bomb technicians from the Explosive Ordnance Response Team (EORT) and Regional Bomb Response Teams (RBRT) have undergone extensive training to master the operation of these advanced bomb robots. The new technology provides several key advantages, allowing technicians to:
- remotely approach, investigate and safely render real and suspected improvised explosive devices
- neutralise and exploit chemical, biological or radiological devices
- act as delivery platforms during tactically dangerous situations
- support police tactical groups and police negotiators
- support other government agencies such as Queensland Fire Department and Australian Defence Force.
The new RPV-Ms officially entered operational service on July 12, 2024. Two robots will remain in Brisbane, while the other three have been strategically distributed to the Far Northern Region, Northern Region, and Central Region.
Acting Superintendent Tony Montgomery-Clarke emphasised the significance of this cutting-edge technology.
"This represents a significant re-investment to assure Queensland's Bomb Response capabilities into the future," he said.
"These robots enhance Queensland's Bomb Response capabilities, allowing us to remotely approach, investigate, and neutralize real and suspected IEDs, as well as Chemical, Biological, or Radiological (CBR) devices.
"They keep our people safe by enabling remote inspections via video or X-ray and provide manipulator arms and render safe tools to handle hazardous items."
Explosive Ordnance Response Team Officer in Charge, Senior Sergeant Mark Smith CSC echoed Superintendent Montgomery-Clarke's sentiments.
"The reinvestment in medium-sized bomb robots by the QPS is a quantum leap forward in technology," he said.
"It provides a far better range, battery life and capability to keep police and the community safe."
"As we respond to bomb response incidents, we will deploy remote positioning vehicles or bomb robots to keep bomb technicians safe."
EPE Trusted to Protect CEO, Warwick Penrose said implementing this technology into the QPS is critical in enhancing the safety of the community and officers.
"EPE has a long history of working with Queensland Police EORT providing capability, training and through life support for over two decades," he said.
"Our team of former police and military bomb technicians is uniquely placed to understand the challenges faced by EORT and provide the best capabilities for evaluation against their requirements."
The introduction of these advanced bomb robots marks a significant step forward in innovation and capability for the QPS in keeping Queenslanders safe. By enhancing the safety and efficiency of our explosive ordnance response teams, these new robots play a crucial role in protecting both the officers and the community from potential or confirmed explosive hazards.
