Interrogation from a safe distance

Wednesday, 18 June, 2008

An improvised explosive device (IE D) interrogation arm produced by Fascan International makes use of a Micro 20 crane produced by FASSI , which is exhibiting its range on Outdoor Stand H010. Notable for their compact size, the FASSI articulated cranes have a maximum reach of 9.4m when functioning as an interrogation arm and they have become a key element in combating IEDs in Iraq.
Developed a year ago to meet an urgent US Army requirement, the interrogation arm enables crews to inspect suspect items from a safe distance while under armour. Consequently, they have been fitted to a variety of vehicles and although FASSI exports to many countries, the US Army is currently its biggest customer.
However, visitors with less specialist requirements may see several examples of the FASSI range of cranes, which can be remotely controlled and fitted with a pan and tilt camera.
Innovative Italian design has enabled the company to produce highly efficient cranes that take up minimal space on the chosen platform. This has been an important factor in the choice of FASSI cranes to be at the core of the IED interrogation arm.

FASSI’s compact Micro 20 crane is fitted with an interrogation arm described by the US Army as among the ‘10 greatest inventions of 2007’