Industry
Korean Counter-Terrorist Units Receive PIAP GRYF Robots
In late September, the Korean Police KNP-SOU element received the PIAP Gryf EOD robots, delivered by the Łukasiewicz – PIAP Industrial Research Institute for Automation and Measurements. According to the manufacturer, robots as such are already a part of the inventory of the ROKAF. Hence, some of the operators in the Police may be familiar with the previous iterations of the system.
The PIAP Gryf bomb disposal robot is tailored to carry out hazardous materials neutralization tasks, explosive ordnance disposal included. It can be used to safely identify, pick up and transport suspicious objects, to the location where they could be safely neutralized. In extreme scenarios, the neutralization could take place in locations where the hazardous materials are discovered - in circumstances as such, the robot’s accessories can be used.
As PIAP stresses, the hybrid drivetrain, with wheels and continuous track, makes it possible for the robot to move efficiently on any surface, in rough terrain, and in buildings (moving up and down the staircases). The robot’s wheels can be removed which further reduces its size, and thereby makes it possible to carry out operations in narrow spaces - inside an airliner for instance.
The Korean CT units have received the latest models of the medium-sized PIAP Gryf EOD robot, weighing 48 kilograms. The robots have been delivered with relevant equipment kits, meeting the requirements that Police EOD teams may have. This makes it possible to utilize pyrotechnic disrupters, portable X-ray systems, or shotguns. The EOD technician may also use the robot's tool bank, including a glass breaker, wire cutters, or a knife for puncturing the tyres. Should radio interference be present in the operational environment, an automatic drum with fibre optical wire would facilitate the operations of the robot. The robot has been equipped with PTZ IR and video cameras for day/night use, a Hi-res camera with 33x optical zoom, and a gripper camera that makes it far easier to pick up hazardous materials. The robot is remotely controlled via a modern and handy control panel. A trained officer can assess the content of suspicious luggage or object, and inspect other potentially dangerous goods.
The tactical personnel is recruited solely among the experienced SOF operators. The SOU element of the Korean Police is a type of Police unit that is a part of the Korean National Police Agency. SOU is tasked with CT operations in urban/civil settings, hostage rescue missions, and terrorism-related EOD missions. Furthermore, these elements work at important international events and support rescue operations in extraordinary circumstances, during natural disasters, or humanitarian crises.