Detecting mines and IEDs: what are the prospects for robots?

Purpose – This paper aims to examine the present‐day use of, and future prospects for, robots for detecting mines and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), with an emphasis on the key operational requirements. Design/methodology/approach – Following an introduction to the impact of mines and IEDs, this paper considers the problems with their detection and considers the techniques used. It then highlights their limitations and identifies key detection requirements. The remainder of the paper discusses the present‐day and future role of robots, notably for IED detection and humanitarian demining. This is followed by a brief conclusion. Findings – This shows that mines and IEDs pose a major military and humanitarian threat but existing detection methods, including robots, suffer from many shortcomings. Robotic technologies that offer prospects are discussed but many specific requirements must be met if robotic solutions are to exert any real, future impact. Originality/value – This paper highlights the need for improved mine and IED detection methods and identifies the factors that need to be taken into account if robots are to contribute meaningfully to these tasks in the future.