The latest models of the medium (48 kg) explosive ordnance disposal robot were received by officers serving in special operations units of the Police. The Special Operations Unit of the Police of the Republic of Korea, abbreviated as SOU, is a type of police formation operating within the Korean National Police Agency.
At the end of September 2022, the Łukasiewicz Research Network – Industrial Institute for Automation and Measurements (PIAP) delivered pyrotechnic robots PIAP GRYF to Special Operations Units of the Korean National Police (KNP-SO
SOU perform counter-terrorist missions in urban and civil environments, hostage rescue operations, and search and removal of explosives related to terrorist incidents. In addition, the units secure important international events and support rescue operations in exceptional situations, such as various types of catastrophes or humanitarian crises.
The tactical personnel for the Special Operation Units of the Police of the Republic of Korea is recruited amongst the veterans of the military special forces. PIAP GRYF pyrotechnic robots are already well known to the South Korean military, which is why some EOD Police operators are familiar with previous versions of this device (PIAP At The DSA 2022 Show In Malaysia).
The mobile pyrotechnic robot PIAP GRYF is adapted to carry out neutralization activities related to the use of dangerous objects and devices, including explosives. With its help, the operator can safely identify, pick up, and transport a suspicious object to the place of its neutralization. In extreme situations, neutralization can be carried out on the spot where the dangerous object was found, using accessories installed in the robot.
The robot’s hybrid drive system enables efficient movement on any surface, in varied terrain, as well as in buildings (including climbing stairs). The robot’s wheels can be quickly disassembled, which further reduces its dimensions and thus facilitates action in narrow spaces, such as on board of an aircraft.
Photo: Łukasiewicz Research Network PIAP
Press release