EOD Marines conduct robotics training on Okinawa

Photo By Sgt. Aaron Hostutler | The MK3 Remote Ordnance Neutralization System (RONS) removes a simulated explosive from underneath a vehicle. The cameras mounted on the robot make it possible for Marines controlling the system from the command station to see what they are doing  

04.25.2008

Story by Pfc. Aaron Hostutler 

III Marine Expeditionary Force   

By Aaron Hostutler
III Marine Expeditionary force Public Affairs

CAMP FOSTER, OKINAWA, Japan – The training was part of ongoing familiarization and sustainment training held to keep Explosive Ordnance Disposal Marines, particularly those fresh from school, prepared for the ever-changing world of anti-terrorism and force protection, according to Staff Sgt. Brendan McInerney, the staff non-commissioned officer in charge of the EOD team.

Their military occupational specialty school gave the Marines the basic knowledge and skill sets to perform their duties; however, situations EOD Marines encounter in real life are often more complicated, according to McInerney.

"Out here, you're not in that box anymore," he said. "You're not in Mickey's play land. It's the real world, with real threats."

To prepare for real threats, senior technicians presented the Marines with various scenarios showing them how to utilize robotic systems when dealing with explosive situations.

During the scenarios, Marines used t he MK3 Remote Ordnance Neutralization system to remove and neutralize explosives under vehicles, next to buildings and inside boxes. The robotic system enabled Marines to deactivate the simulated explosives without coming in direct contact with them.

McInernery said it is important for Marines to know how to effectively and quickly use the robotics system because robotics should be the primary means to attack a situation while mitigating danger.

The MK 3 system is equipped with four cameras, enabling the operator to control the robot from a command center which is established a safe distance from the threat. The operator controls the arm of the robot which works like a human arm, said McInerney.

It essentially has a shoulder, elbow, wrist and hand, enabling it to move in a variety of ways, he said. The hand of the robot can be fitted with several attachments allowing the operator to deal with explosives in different ways.

The robot can also be employed in nearly any environment, McInerney said. It is weather proof and has nearly an eight-foot reach.

Instructors established scenarios based not just on the capabilities of the robot but also on the ever-changing tactics of the enemy, preparing the Marines for real-life situations.

The training seemed to hit home with the EOD Marines.

"This training gave us hands-on time with the robot, learning about the equipment as well as the best way to employ it," said Sgt. Philip Bibbey, an EOD technician with the team.

It is very important to receive constant training with these systems to stay effective, "especially when people's lives are on the line," McInerney said.

• Date Taken: 04.25.2008
• Date Posted: 04.24.2008 04:34
• Story ID: 18720