In the ongoing FEINDEF 2023 defense exhibition in Spain, CNIM, a leading French defense company, unveiled its latest innovation, ROCUS. This route clearance unmanned system is built on the robust MILREM THeMIS, a tracked robot outfitted with extendable arms and specialized tools for defusing mine threats and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). According to CNIM, this groundbreaking road mine clearance robot is set to make a significant impact with seven units already scheduled for delivery to Ukraine.
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The new ROCUS Route Clearance Unmanned System was developed by the French company CNIM. (Picture source CNIM)

ROCUS is a sophisticated and advanced road clearance system, based on the THeMIS tracked Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV). It represents a significant leap forward in the application of robotics to the serious, often deadly business of explosive ordnance disposal. The system is designed to minimize human exposure to danger while maximizing the efficiency and effectiveness of the road clearance process.

Road clearance vehicles, such as the ROCUS based on the THeMIS UGV, have increasingly important roles on modern battlefields due to their versatility and capability to protect military personnel from high-risk tasks.

At the forefront of their capabilities is their primary function – ensuring safe passage for military convoys. In conflict zones, the danger of mines, IEDs (Improvised Explosive Devices), and other forms of unexploded ordnance is ever-present. These threats can halt the advance of troops, disrupt supply chains, and cause significant harm to military personnel. Road clearance vehicles, equipped with advanced detection and neutralization technologies, can methodically scan and clear these routes, reducing the risk to human life and maintaining the flow of operations.

At the heart of the ROCUS system is its versatile manipulator arm. This critical component provides the robot with the flexibility and reach needed to handle, defuse, or safely detonate explosive devices. Equipped with multiple degrees of freedom, it can deftly maneuver around obstacles and into confined spaces, enabling it to perform delicate operations with precision.

Mounted on the manipulator's arm is an array of specialized tools. One of these is the end effector, or gripper, which can be a simple pincer for grabbing and lifting objects or a more specialized tool for tasks such as cutting wires or unscrewing components.

The THeMIS (Tracked Hybrid Modular Infantry System) is an innovative Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) developed by Milrem Robotics. This Estonia-based defense solutions provider has designed THeMIS to be a multi-role combat vehicle, capable of performing a diverse array of tasks on the battlefield. With its advanced mobility system, it utilizes a tracked design to traverse a wide variety of terrains, enhancing its operational versatility.

The THeMIS is distinguished by its modular design, allowing it to be configured with different payloads to suit various mission requirements. It has a range of up to 100 km and can operate up to 10 hours with a full tank of diesel fuel. The UGV can be remote-controlled or set to follow predefined routes autonomously. The THeMIS, with its robust and adaptable design, represents a significant stride in military robotics, enhancing the capabilities of forces while minimizing risk to personnel.