SWAT Secret Weapon: Robotic Camera Goes In First To Survey Situation [Video]

When the SWAT team gets called in its usually for a pretty dangerous situation. A new device called the Recon Scout is being dubbed the SWAT team’s secret weapon since it could keep officers out of danger.

The Recon Scout is a dumbell-shaped camera robot that can be thrown, dropped, or rolled into a room so authorities can get a view of a potentially dangerous situation before they enter.

The Common Law Blog describes the device:

“(The recon scout is) the size of a beer can with a wheel on each end, and a TV camera peering out. The Recon Scout is light enough in weight for a non-athlete to throw into a third-floor window, yet survives repeated 30-foot drops onto concrete. The associated wireless hand-held controller has a joystick to drive and steer the unit, and a TV screen to show what the camera in the unit sees. The units allow users to send in “eyes” where it’s not safe for people to go.”

The new device could help police, fire departments, SWAT teams, and security officials in numerous situations. From finding hostages to locating people in a burning building, the recon scout could help save lives while keeping authorities out of danger.

The Huffington Post reports that the new device isn’t being well-received by everyone. Amateur radio operators have protested the device since the recon scout would operate on the same band.

What do you think about the SWAT team’s new secret weapon?