Robotics Autonomous

CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, Japan -- Marines with 2nd Platoon, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, engaged in charge employment training July 31-Aug. 2, 2018 at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan.

The training taught EOD technicians to confidently and safely neutralize an improvised explosive device using robotic platforms.

During the simulated scenarios, EOD technicians used the Mark II Talon EOD robot and the iRobot 310 Small Unmanned Ground Vehicle. The Marines mainly used the Mark II Talon to counter IEDs during the training due to the rough, muddy terrain.

The technicians sent out the Mark II Talon from their vehicle, controlling it with a remote Operator Control Unit. The Mark II Talon was then used to travel into the danger area, without the technicians having to physically walk through the area. After the robot traversed through the danger area, the technicians were able to follow along the tracks of the robot while sweeping for IEDs with a metal detector. They then retrieved the robot and returned it to the starting location.

The Marines combined everything they learned in recent training evolutions, said Sgt. Andrew Duggan, an EOD technician and training noncommissioned officer with EOD Co., 9th ESB. Duggan said the training ensures the Marines’ cohesion is sound and the teams understand each other during the simulated IED scenarios.

Photo Caption:

Staff Sgt. David Cain retrieves a Mark II Talon Explosive Ordnance Disposal robot during charge employment training Aug. 2, 2018 at Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan. The training taught EOD technicians to effectively neutralize improvised explosive devices with unmanned robotic platforms by safely finding and removing any hazards. Cain, a native of Fredericksburg, Virginia, is an EOD technician with EOD Company, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group.