Wheelbarrow

Overview

The Wheelbarrow is a remotely controlled robot designed in 1972 for use by British Army bomb disposal teams operating in Northern Ireland, mainland Britain, and Iraq. Over 400 have been destroyed in operation, possibly saving the lives of their human counterparts. Its impact is most evident in its role during the height of the IRA bombing campaign in the 1970s, where it was credited with saving hundreds of lives by enabling remote disruption, defusing, or disposal of bombs, including car bombs and improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

Key facts

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Status

active