Navy selects QinetiQ for Talon robots

WALTHAM, Mass., June 26 (UPI) -- The U.S. Navy has contracted QinetiQ North America to deliver robots and repair parts from the company's line of Talon first-responder robot systems.

QinetiQ, with headquarters in McLean, Va., was awarded the contract from the Naval Surface Warfare Center in Maryland. Under the $56.4 million deal, QinetiQ will deliver its Talon Gen IV military and first-responder robot technology to Naval Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technology Division at Naval Surface Warfare Center.

Officials say the indefinite delivery indefinite quantity contract also includes Talon repair parts and spare kits along with other support requirements. The Talon robots, widely deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan, are designed to clear out roadside bombs and other explosive threats while keeping soldiers at a safe distance.

"Once again, we thank the U.S. Navy for its continued support of our robotics programs," William Ribich, QinetiQ North America Technology Solutions Group president, said in a statement.

"Robots help protect our warfighters, a fact that is demonstrated every day when a robot accomplishes a dangerous assignment while the warfighter controls it from a safe distance."