Afghanistan Orders EOD Robots

MMP-15/30
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TML’s work with the US military began in July of 2007, via a request by the US Army to design 3 new man-portable EOD robot systems with a 4-axis arms, video display OCU, multiple cameras, swappable batteries and chargers, all of which had to weigh under 35 pounds. Those MMP-15 systems were finalized and shipped by the end of October 2007, and saw use in Iraq. The follow-on MMP-30 touts itself as a “bare bones simple but rugged machine.”

That seems to be a strong selling point for a country like Afghanistan, with few technical support and repair resources. The MMP-30 also appears to be cheaper than the MTRS robots, which boast more versatility thanks a wider range of add-ons.

Rapid Fire June 25, 2013: US DoD to Review Industry Plans for Indian Pitches

• US Acquisition Undersecretary Frank Kendall received [PDF] 90+ proposals from 50+ American companies interested in joint projects with India. He wants to remain realistic given India’s preference for local production:

“We will carefully assess a number of factors, including the degree of co-production and co-development involved, the likelihood of Indian interest, and the probability of approval for release of the technology involved.”