THE HON. WARREN SNOWDON MP
Minister for Defence Science and Personnel
Friday, 28 March 2008
027/2008
A ROBOT WATCHDOG TO SNIFF OUT RADIATION
Australian scientists have developed a prototype remote-controlled robotic
vehicle to detect radiation, the Minister for Defence Science and Personnel,
The Hon. Warren Snowdon, announced today.
“This is a significant leap forward for Australia’s defence and national security
agencies,” Mr Snowdon said.
“It will greatly enhance our ability to respond to radioactive incidents.”
The concept vehicle, known as RASP, for Remote Advanced Sensor Platform,
was developed jointly by the Defence Science and Technology Organisation
(DSTO) and the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation
(ANSTO).
It’s small and light and can be operated from distances of up to 350 metres
with full control of the robot.
“It could be deployed in almost any area or location, from aircraft to cargo
containers,” said Mr Snowdon.
“For the first time, we will also be able to provide our national security
agencies with the ability to remotely identify the nature of the radioactive
sources.
“Emergency officers who detect the presence of radiation with their handheld
instruments would be able to send in RASP and quickly discover if it has a
half-life of several days or fifty thousand years.”
Mid-year scenario trials will be taken at ANSTO. The scenarios will closely
emulate a real event involving radioactive material.
Media contacts:
Kate Sieper (Warren Snowdon):
02 6277 7620 or 0488 484 689
Defence Media Liaison:
02 6265 3343 or 0408 498 664
NEWS 
