Belgium Boosts EOD Expertise with Exail’s Cutting-Edge R7 ROVs

The Belgian Defense has commissioned six R7 Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) from Exail. This advanced underwater apparatus is set to significantly enhance the capabilities of the Belgian Armed Forces for the examination and elimination of underwater explosive ordnance (EOD), thus ensuring the security of harbors, coastal regions, vessels, and crucial infrastructures.

“We express our gratitude to the Belgian Defense for entrusting us with the selection of the R7 ROV. This acquisition from a nation esteemed for its proficiency in underwater operations validates the R7’s functionality for the protection of vital infrastructure, explosive ordnance disposal, and inspection tasks at depths of up to 300 meters,” remarked Nicolas Astruc, Managing Director of ROV at Exail.

“The deployment of ROV R7s within the Belgian Navy signifies a notable enhancement in the safeguarding of Belgian waters; pivotal for underwater explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) inspection and removal, alongside the security of ports, coastal zones, vessels, and essential infrastructures. This initiative reflects the Navy’s dedication to perpetually refining its capabilities and ensuring the safety of its personnel and the surrounding environment,” proclaimed the Belgian Defense.

The R7 ROV is an economical, compact, and multifunctional Remotely Operated Vehicle designed for seamless deployment and operation from small crafts like RHIBs or from the shoreline. This innovative ROV can adeptly incorporate a robotic arm and various payloads, making it a flexible machine proficient in executing a diverse array of missions.

For EOD neutralization tasks, the R7 is equipped with a specialized payload featuring a neutralization charge. The R7 guarantees high precision positioning with its integrated INS, DVL, and USBL sensors. Furthermore, the ROV is outfitted with a multibeam sonar and an Orphie 12S camera for exact target detection and identification in challenging scenarios.