UNAC has won the contract from the French Defence Procurement Agency (DGA) for the ROBIN (ROBot d’INvestigation) system.
~
Press Release, Vergèze, 12 January 2026: [auto-translated] UNAC has won the contract from the French Defence Procurement Agency (DGA) for the ROBIN (ROBot d’INvestigation) system, a remotely operated reconnaissance robot designed to equip all engineering regiments. This contract covers a maximum of 34 systems and represents the first production robotic programme awarded by the DGA to the French Army in this size and weight segment.
A System Dedicated to Verification and Investigation: ROBIN is designed to operate in potentially dangerous areas, particularly for missions involving IED verification, investigation, observation, and handling of hazardous objects. The system integrates a rotating articulated arm, capable of lifting 120 kg to a height of 3.8 m, and equipped with specialized tools: gripper, claw, and air blower.
- The arm carries PTZ cameras dedicated to detailed observation, complemented by driving cameras positioned on the platform.
- The system offers significant mission autonomy.
- ROBIN is towable at high speed, in accordance with regulations, and can be towed by a Griffon multi-role armoured vehicle.
Teleoperation performed by Safran Electronics & Defense: The ROBIN project relies on a key partnership with Safran Electronics & Defense, designated as the programme’s ‘robotics partner’.
- As part of the contract Safran is responsible for:
- The selection and supply of the HMI hardware,
- The complete development of the teleoperation software,
- The supply and management of the onboard electronics.
- UNAC provides:
- Design, manufacturing, and assembly of the complete system,
- Integration of the robotic arm tools,
- Integration of remote operation,
- Serial assembly.
A strategic programme for French sovereignty: UNAC, a 100% French company, becomes the first defence contractor in France to mass-produce a robotic vehicle of this size for the French Army with this contract. This programme strengthens national sovereignty in the field of remotely operated investigation systems, leveraging a French industrial base and a platform already proven in operations.
A robot based on the qualified Fardier platform: The ROBIN system is developed based on the already qualified Fardier platform, retaining all its mobility capabilities: obstacle crossing, fording, all-terrain mobility, and air transport compatibility.
~
