ROVs to Enhance Belgian EOD Capabilities

Belgian Defense has ordered six R7 Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) from Exail, aiming to enhance the Belgian Armed Forces’ capabilities for inspection and disposal of underwater explosive ordnance (EOD). 

The R7 ROV is a cost-efficient, compact, and versatile Remotely Operated Vehicle that is easy to deploy and operate from small boats such as RHIBs or from the shore. This state-of-the-art underwater vehicle will also play a pivotal role in safeguarding harbors, coastal areas, ships and key infrastructures.

The cutting-edge ROV can easily accommodate a robotic arm and several payloads, making it a versatile robot capable of carrying out a wide range of missions.

For EOD neutralization missions, the R7 carries a special payload equipped with a neutralization charge. Highly accurate positioning is ensured by the R7’s embedded INS, DVL and USBL sensors. In addition, the ROV is equipped with a multibeam sonar and an Orphie 12S camera for precise target detection and identification in the most challenging conditions.

Belgian Defense stated; “The introduction of ROV R7s in the Belgian Navy marks a significant advance in the protection of Belgian waters; for underwater explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) inspection and removal, security of ports, coastal areas, ships and key infrastructures. 

“This initiative demonstrates the Navy’s commitment to continuously improving its capabilities and ensuring the safety of both its personnel and the environment in which they operate.”

Nicolas Astruc, Managing Director of ROV at Exail, said; “We would like to thank the Belgian Defense for the trust they place in us by selecting the R7 ROV. This order from a nation renowned for its expertise in underwater operations, confirms the R7’s capabilities for critical infrastructure protection, explosive ordnance disposal and inspection missions up to 300m depth.”