McGREGOR RANGE, N.M. -- "Never send a man to do a machine's job."
So says Mark Decker, a technician trainer and instructor who is with the Robotics Systems Joint Project Office. The machine is a M160 MV4 DO-KING, a remote-controlled, tracked mine clearance system designed for the destruction of anti-personnel mines and unexploded ordnance.
The DO-KING is the first of its kind here and at Fort Bliss, Texas, and is the latest addition to the Mobilization Training Center -- Bliss' Route Clearance Training Program.
Several Soldiers from First Army Division West's 5th Armored Brigade's 'Task Force Rampant' recently trained on the vehicle, along with joint warfighters who are training with Rampant in preparation for deployment to Afghanistan: the 321st Engineer Company (Route Clearance) of Conroe, Texas; the 704th Engineer Company (Route Clearance) of Hot Springs, Ark.; and the 402nd Engineer Company (Sapper) of Des Moines, Iowa. The DO-KING is currently used in Afghanistan by route clearance units.
"Having this equipment available to train our Reserve Component forces during their post-mobilization training will allow these units to arrive in their forward-deployed theaters with a unique and critical skill set," said Lt. Col. Aaron Dorf, Task Force Rampant Commander.
"The fielding of the … DO-KING has been a priority of TF Rampant for some time," said TF Rampant Command Sgt. Maj. Leonard Meeks. "We are constantly striving to acquire combat systems that emulate what these joint warfighters will encounter downrange. "The more training we can provide to them in this environment the better. It's our job to prepare them for success, and having the right tools of the trade is key for this mission."
The machine employs a rotating shaft with chains attached to disturb the surface of the ground in an attempt to detonate or unearth deadly mines and unexploded ordinance. The flailing action is designed to establish a safe path of travel for dismounted troops in the area.
During the first day of the two-day training event, Soldiers received familiarization of the system's internal and external components, and training on the fuel system. This was followed by instruction on preventive maintenance checks and services and the proper methods to inspect the track area, engine compartment and its attachments.
"PMCS training and testing of the equipment is as important as operating it," said TF Rampant Senior Mechanic Master Sgt. Warner Stadler. "Without formal training on the care of equipment, it is very likely the equipment will not be available and ready when required."
Following PMCS, the Soldiers were taught to program the system and operate it using basic driving techniques. As part of the basic driving training, Soldiers were required to maneuver the system in forward and reverse, as well as negotiate left and right turns in a controlled environment.
Once proficient at maneuver, the Soldiers were taught methods for employing the robot to reducing obstacles. The flailing block of instruction was conducted on a 3,100-meter test lane that was used to simulate entering an unclear area. The key to effective flailing was the ability to employ the DO-KING using a variable tool speed, the correct downward pressure and gear. Prior to entering the unclear area Soldiers must perform a soil test to check the effectiveness of the settings, then adjust as necessary.
"The M160 is definitely an asset to any deploying unit," said TF Rampant Staff Sgt. Daniel Denny after two days of flailing. "I'm excited to be able to provide future training to engineer Soldiers."
A practical exercise allowed Soldiers to get a better feel for the machine and its combat role. Each Soldier took turns holding the remote control to maneuver this piece of equipment along the training lane.
"The remote-control-operated vehicle is actually fun to drive and maneuver, said TF Rampant Staff Sgt. Chamberlain Wolfe. "However, its mission is very serious and critical to our safe maneuver in what at times is a dangerous region."
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