This device was used extensively for the first time during Operation Cast Lead. Photo: Nir Arieli

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A number of Infantry Corps units have recently tested the I-Robot and I-Drive; the tests were declared successful by the GOC Army Headquarters. At the recent corps briefing, the Infantry Corps Headquarters decided that the test phase will continue until October 2009, and later it will be decided which and how many of the robots are going to be used in the Infantry Corps forces. A training and instruction program for the use of these robots by IDF forces is being developed.

The two robots were designed to provide the soldiers in the field with precise situation reports of the battle field, especially in the way of  scans and battles in urban areas: residential buildings, narrow passageways and the like. The robot transfers a realistic and clear picture and thus enables the soldiers to know a bit more about a combat zone before they enter.

The I-Robot, which weighs 24 kg, has the ability to climb stairs and to stretch thanks to its long neck. It is carried and operated by two soldiers. The I-Drive weighs only 3 kg and is carried and operated by one soldier. Its advantage is that it can be thrown freely and always lands on all fours, sending the forces a successful picture from six different cameras.

In addition to that, the Eyeball – which is not a robot by definition, but actually a small ball with an internal camera – was widely used for the first time during Operation Cast Lead; before that it was used in IDF special forces.

Simultaneously, the GOC Army Headquarters continues to test future models based on the existing robots, which will have more advanced abilities, corresponding to the needs emerging in the field.