MAARS is the first fully modular ground robot system capable of providing force escalation options for a measured response that fits any combat situation.

Modular Advanced Armed Robotic System (MAARS) has been developed by QinetiQ, North America’s Technology Solutions Group. It is the first fully modular ground robot system capable of providing force escalation options for a measured response that fits any combat situation. MAARS is an agile, combat-ready robot that is remotely controlled by the operator, who can interact with hostile forces from a safe distance using the robot’s twoway communication features and multiple cameras, a company press release said.

It provides multiple options for response and escalation of force like non-lethal-operator’s voice projected through loudspeakers on the robot and an eye-safe laser to dazzle people; less-lethal-launcher to deploy bean bags, smoke, star clusters and pepper spray; lethal-launcher to deploy 40mm high-explosive grenades or the powerful M240B medium machine gun firing 7.62mm ammunition. Multiple cameras give the operator a clear view of the robot and its surroundings to ensure optimum safety and improve situational awareness. In the MAARS weapons-configured system, the operator always sees where the weapon is pointed in relation to him and other friendly forces. MAARS uses an easy-to-learn digital control system that provides comprehensive situational awareness that works up to a range of over 1 km from the operator, effectively extending the reach of the operator and enhancing soldier survivability. In addition, the robot’s turret system is able to support a drop-in manipulator arm, multiple weapons and a range of sensor packages.