5 More Incredible Technologies Used by the IDF

A few weeks ago we gave you an insight on eight amazing technologies the IDF uses for the protection of the State of Israel and its citizens. As many people pointed out, there are still many more amazing gadgets and systems IDF soldiers work with every day. So grab a cup of coffee, pull your chair close and read about 5 more incredible technologies used by the IDF.

1. The Protector USV (unmanned surface vehicle):

You have heard of drones in the IDF and you have probably heard of unmanned vehicles, but did you know the IDF also has robot boats?

Meet the Protector USV. This 9 meter long unmanned vessel is fast, stealthy and highly maneuverable. Capable of reaching speeds of up to 92 km/h (57 mph), the Protector offers surveillance, identification and interception capabilities. The Protector is highly autonomous but can be easily remote-controlled by two operators on shore or a nearby vessel. Equipped with an extremely accurate, stabilized weapons station, a search radar, electro-optical detection systems, a speaker system and a targeting system with day and night capabilities, this easily reconfigurable system can be used for a wide variety of missions. Force protection, anti-terror missions, surveillance or sabotage; the Protector USV does it all with the crew safely out of harm’s way.

2. The VIPeR (Versatile, Intelligent, Portable Robot):

Did you love R/C cars as a kid but always thought that they were lacking something? Take a look at the VIPeR.

It’s a portable, lightweight robot designed specifically for urban guerrilla warfare and thanks to its special wheel system that can literally change its shape, VIPeR knows how to handle a variety of obstacles such as climbing stairs and big rocks or crawling into very confined spaces and caves. VIPeR is equipped with several day & night cameras, sensible microphones, GPS and an array of sensors that can detect and locate chemicals, gases, explosives and radiation. One single operator controls the robot with a gaming style controller and a helmet mounted display, giving him the ability to see everything that VIPeR sees, from a safe distance. Despite all of these capabilities, VIPeR weighs in at just over 11 kilo and can easily be carried in a soldier’s backpack. Besides being the perfect tool for safe surveillance and reconnaissance missions, this amazing robot can also be outfitted with a 4-ft robotic arm including a gripper, a 9mm mini-Uzi with scope and pointer and even a grenade launcher. This is definitely not your childhood toy.