Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide
  • Home
  • /
  • Defence
  • /
  • Dstl tests XRBS on remote-controlled robot

Defence

Dstl tests XRBS on remote-controlled robot

Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) experts have run field trials on a Rapiscan American Science and Engineering produced prototype that uses X-Ray Backscatter (XRBS) imaging technology mounted on an L3Harris T7 remote-controlled robot.

Courtesy Dstl

This would save lives by enabling military personnel to look inside containers - including cars and walls - for hidden weapons or explosive material without being near the potential threat.

Operators would also be able to scan large areas quicker leading to increased situational awareness giving troops an operational advantage.

Advertisement
Gulfstream RT

Trial Manager Elaine said: "X-ray Backscatter is an established technology but what we are trying to do is apply it to explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) – this approach is novel.

"Being able to robotically mount X-ray Backscatter provides additional situational awareness, potentially to see if there is a threat item without having to go anywhere near it. It feels amazing to be involved in a project that could go on to save lives."

She added that it was extremely rewarding from joining as a graduate to demonstrating this capability in her first role as trial manager.

The project is a collaboration with the US government and two prototypes have been created.

Above: Operator demonstrates the capabilities of X-ray robot.
Courtesy Dstl

After the successful field tests the project team will be using the feedback to assess what modifications would be needed to turn this prototype into a military asset that could be used on the battlefield.

Physics graduate Lyndsey: "It’s incredible to be working on such ground-breaking technology.

"The reason I did physics was because I wanted to make a difference in the world and I really wanted to help people.

"I feel like this project does this. I love it. It’s a great day’s work. It definitely is a really cool project to work on."

The team have been demonstrating the capability to UK and US stakeholders using simulated explosive and non-conventional threats as well as various firearms.

They showed the prototype detecting threats through bags, plastic drums and metal lockers in addition to a car and a variety of wall materials.

Advertisement
Teledyne

Above: X-ray robot using XRBS tech examines the contents of a drum.
Courtesy Dstl

The prototype imager head is mounted on the robot arm and is operated via a haptic controller. Combining the X-ray Backscatter system with the EOD robot has allowed demonstration of remote deployment of the capability across multiple terrains.

The Backscatter technology forms the image by sweeping a small ‘pencil beam’ of X-rays across the target and detecting those reflected back using detectors mounted on the front of the imager.

The image is transmitted back to the operator in real-time for analysis.

Senior Principal Scientist Andrew said: "The feedback we’ve had from our stakeholders who have come to see the system up here has been very positive, better than I could have hoped for really.

"I’ve been jotting things down – some direct quotes to use – and I think my favourite so far has been ‘I want one!’"

"When they say something like that you know you’ve delivered something that has piqued their interest."

 

 


 

Lane Electronics to showcase defence connectivity at MSPO

Aerospace Defence Events

Lane Electronics to showcase defence connectivity at MSPO

11 July 2025

Lane Electronics, a franchised distributor for many of the industry’s major electrical, electronic and optical connector manufacturers, will be Exhibiting at MSPO 2025 (2nd–5th September 2025, Kielce, Poland), where they will be displaying the latest connector innovations and demonstrating their UK based assembling and value add services.

Flitetec secures two distribution agreements

Aerospace Defence Events

Flitetec secures two distribution agreements

11 July 2025

Amersham based aerospace business Flitetec, has confirmed two major deals that it shook on at the recent Paris Air Show.

GKN Aerospace secures Typhoon transparencies contract

Defence

GKN Aerospace secures Typhoon transparencies contract

10 July 2025

GKN Aerospace has signed a six-year follow-on contract with BAE Systems for continued manufacture of Eurofighter Typhoon transparencies at its Luton facility, through to the end of 2030.

Metis to supply Skyperion to NATO ally

Defence Security

Metis to supply Skyperion to NATO ally

10 July 2025

Metis has won a contract to supply a number of Skyperion drone detection systems to a NATO customer to provide the drone detect function as part of an integrated Counter Uncrewed Air Systems (C-UAS) capability.

Advertisement
Gulfstream RT
ALL.SPACE unveils Hydra MAX

Defence Space

ALL.SPACE unveils Hydra MAX

10 July 2025

ALL.SPACE has revealed a major advancement in mobile satellite communications with the successful demonstration of Hydra MAX - the first network independent terminal of its kind to deliver ultra wideband communications to multiple satellites simultaneously.

BAE Systems assessed

Defence

BAE Systems assessed 'Awardable' for US DoD work in P1 Solutions Marketplace

9 July 2025

BAE Systems in collaboration with Defense Unicorns, have announced that their joint solution has achieved 'Awardable' status for US Department of Defense (DoD) work through the US Platform One (P1) Solutions Marketplace.

Advertisement
DSEI 2025