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Upstart can spring surprises

Wednesday, 12 September, 2007

Present day conflicts and internal security threats make increasing use of special forces necessary. Small but highly trained teams often employ surprise as a major tactic and the ability to rapidly ascend or descend can be important. The Upstart rapid rope climbing device being shown by QinetiQ on Stand 641 never fails to draw crowds, as an athletic man makes use of the device.

Upstart incorporates the latest advances in rope, battery and motor techniques and its ability to enable a soldier to rapidly ascend or descend a free rope while carrying weapons and equipment has attracted the attention of the US Department of Defense.

High-rise buildings, offshore platforms and other structures, as well as natural landscapes, can be scaled swiftly and with minimal effort. Thus, Upstart can be used in urban warfare, hostage rescue and battlefield engineering — wherever there is a need for high-performance battery powered portable rope moving or traversing.

Upstart is compatible with all known tactical harnesses and associated weapon systems and is waterproof for maritime operations and underwater insertion. The device weighs 25kg, can carry a 182kg payload and is near silent in operation.