QinetiQ to develop UAS controller system

MCLEAN, Va., Aug. 6 (UPI) -- The U.S. Marine Corps has contracted QinetiQ North America to develop controller technology capable of supporting unmanned vehicles and sensors used in combat.

U.S. company QinetiQ was awarded the contract to develop a Common Robotic Controller designed to be worn by Marine Corps operators that can act as a universal unmanned systems control technology.

Under the $2 million contract, the Common Robotic Controller will be expected to be lightweight and support the operation of unmanned ground vehicles, unmanned aerial vehicles, and unattended ground sensors widely deployed in combat theaters.

"We welcome this opportunity to work on such an important development project for the U.S. Marines," William Ribich, QinetiQ North America Technology Solutions Group president, said in a statement.

"We look forward to providing our Marines and coalition forces with a rugged, reliable controller that they can wear with confidence in its ability to perform as required."