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| Security Robots |
Security at sporting
events has become a hot issue of concern after the recent bombing at the Boston
marathon. Although, Brazil has never had to deal with terrorist attack before, but
the country isn't taking chances.
Super Eagles
and indeed, those that will be accompanying the team to Brazil this June, will not
only have to face security men, but some intelligent robots keeping surveillance
on everyone. This is part of Brazilian government's plan to use the Confederations
cup tournament to test out the use of security robots for the 2014 FIFA World cup.
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| Super Eagles Team |
The robots which
weigh 60 pounds and customizable parts, including a robotic arm and other features,
are operated remotely with a small control unit that essentially is a ruggedized
tap top like a game style controller.
The multi-used
robot has proven useful for a variety of law enforcement applications, which include
the inspection of potentially dangerous areas and objects; the detection of chemical
and explosive agents and the removal of suspicious devices.
According to
Alison Dean, Executive Vice President of iRobot, the manufacturers of the equipment,
"The purpose of these Robots is to keep the operator and other people safe
while an investigation is being concluded."
Dean said Brazilian
government signed a $7.2 million contract with iRobot, "...to customize for
the purpose of the 2014 FIFA world cup, Robots and small unmanned ground vehicles
which can provide surveillance, bomb removal and other law enforcement missions."
She explained, "30 Robots would be delivered by the end of the year, along
with spare and other support gear."
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| Bomb Detector and Remover |
The government
confirmed that some will be in action in the six cities hosting Confederations cup
matches.
Brazilian President,
Dlina Rusself had already announced that security will be reinforced along 10, 000
miles of the country’s borders in preparation for the Confederations cup. About
20, 000 troops are expected to be added to reinforce security in the region.
The
Brazilian Air force has earlier this year invested nearly $25 million to
purchase two Israel-made drones to help provide public safety. It already had
two unmanned planes since 2001. The air force is now planning to have a new
radar system in place.
Brazil
shares borders with 10 countries in South America. Most Police actions in the
region involves combating drug traffic and illegal entrance of smuggled goods.
Brazil plan
to have between 3, 000 to 5, 000 soldiers in the twelve host cities during the
world cup in June 2014. Brazil will also be hosting the 2016 Olympics in Rio,
the first in South America. The President is particularly making sure security
is foolproof.
