IDEX: Abu Dhabi's UAV maker signs technology deal with iRobot

ADASI is to use the Massachusetts-based company’s unmanned systems in defense and civil applications.

IRobot, whose presence at this year’s IDEX spans multiple booths throughout the hall including the collocated Naval Defence Exhibition, will lend both its ground and maritime systems to the effort.

ADASI (Abu Dhabi Autonomous Systems Investments), a subsidiary of major defense company Tawazun, plans on using the systems to explore markets such as security, oil and gas, environmental monitoring, and the military. Through the ITAR-controlled partnership, ADASI has access to a wide range of iRobot’s robotics platforms.

In addition to iRobot’s Seaglider and its smaller man-portable Ranger UUV, ADASI is exploring making an unmanned surface vehicle via an iRobot appliqué kit using a ridged hull inflatable boat as a platform.

Jim Rymarcsuk, iRobot senior vice president of business development, says the partnership came about mutually.

“This is a core growth area for us,” he says. “We see a lot of opportunity here.”

Tawazun also has a complementary UAV it will couple with iRobot’s ground robotics systems. While there is currently not a common controller, there is potential for its development, says Rymarcsuk.