The specially designed obstacle course included a number of challenges aimed at testing small ground robots that might be used by marines and soldiers in the field. The Elbit Systems' VIPeR Robot was among eight different systems that faced this test.

The obstacle course included areas with different surfaces - deep sand, small gravel, brush and debris, even speed bumps. Each of the robots had to traverse each of these types of ground as well as mounting stairs and negotiating a tunnel.

The VIPeR has a unique capability to change between wheels and tracks on the fly, permitting it to speed through different obstacles. The system also features an articulated "tail" that provides balance and helps it get out of situations that might trap other robots.

Spectators at the course remarked on how the VIPeR could change configuration to meet the different conditions and how the robot's versatile "tail" allowed it to recover from upsets and climb stairs. The Elbit Systems team was the only team to bring their robot and all of its control systems to the course in a single backpack.

Raanan Horowitz, Elbit Systems of America's President and Chief Executive Officer, stated: "We appreciate the opportunity to demonstrate Elbit Systems' advanced robotic technologies and systems. Elbit Systems has made a significant investment in developing and fielding unmanned systems for air, ground and marine applications. The VIPeR provides unique mobility and agility with small logistics footprint, which is critical for future robotic applications."

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