Dragon Runner
Description



Multiple systems were developed, tested and delivered to USMC units in Iraq

Objectives:
Dragon Runner was developed as a low-cost rugged alternative to overly heavy, bulky, slow and costly robotic scouts already on the market. Dragon Runner pushed the technical state-of-the-art in the areas of drivetrain, vetronics, miniaturization and integration, as well as portability-integration (backpack), small desert-usable displays, and interface and production-ready injection-moldable materials and parts for low-cost assembly. NREC met all objectives, including the development and testing of several modular payloads.

System Description:
The prototype Dragon Runner mobile ground sensor system consists of a vehicle, a small operator control system (OCS), and a simple ambidextrous handheld controller for one-handed operation, all held in a custom backpack.

The four-wheeled, all-wheel-drive robotic vehicle has high-speed capability and can also be operated with slow, deliberate, finite control. The system is easy to operate, requires little formal operator training and can be deployed from the pack in less than three seconds. On-board infrared capabilities enable night operation.

NREC delivered several units for deployment to OIF for the Marines to evaluate effectiveness and develop techniques, tactics and procedures.