Pearson Engineering works on robot mine sweeper being trialled by British Army

North East defence specialist Pearson Engineering has helped to develop a robot mine sweeper which is now being trialled by the British Army to clear explosives on the front lines.

The Newcastle company, based in the famous Armstrong Works, has worked with the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) to create Weevil, a device which is hoped will replace current mine-clearing methods that included Trojan armoured vehicles, which require a three-person team to operate in hazardous areas.

The robot mine sweeper is said to be able to clear minefields quicker and safer than present capabilities, reducing risk to soldiers on the front line and it can be operated via remote control by just one person from several miles away.

The prototype – which is fitted with a mine plough to clear a safe path – has been successfully tested on a surrogate minefield in Newcastle, and the technology is now being passed to the British Army for further development and more trials.

Ian Bell, CEO at Pearson Engineering, said: “We are proud to contribute to such game-changing capability. It brings together decades of development by Pearson Engineering, delivering the very best of minefield breaching technology proven around the world, and contemporary developments in teleoperation.

“Work with UK MOD is an incredibly important part of our business, ensuring our troops get the latest in combat engineering capability and that we can effectively defend our nation and allies.”

Luke Pollard, minister for the armed forces, said: “It won’t be a moment too soon when we no longer have to send our people directly into harm’s way to clear minefields.

“This kit could tackle the deadly threat of mines in the most challenging environments, while being remotely operated by our soldiers several miles away.

“It demonstrates British innovation, by British organisations, to protect British troops.”

The robot was developed by the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL) and Newcastle-based firm Pearson Engineering.

The Ministry of Defence said there are no current plans to provide it to Ukraine.

DSTL military adviser Major Andrew Maggs said: “Weevil is the perfect combination of tried and tested technology and modern advancements.