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Operational Field Evaluations are one of the most important aspects of the Humanitarian Demining R&D Program because the equipment undergoes testing in actual minefields. These evaluations allow the host country to operate the equipment and determine its usefulness, cost effectiveness and efficiency.
When prototype equipment is ready for an operational field evaluation, HD R&D coordinates with the host nation demining partner to complete a Memorandum of Understanding, Logistics Support Agreement and an evaluation plan. With the assistance of U.S. Embassy representatives, combatant command headquarters and host nation representatives, HD R&D transports the equipment, including spare & repair parts to support training of indigenous personnel, to the country. Upon arrival, a fielding team inspects the equipment, prepares it for use, and conducts training of the local deminer operators. After the fielding team departs, HD R&D will typically conduct periodic assistance visits during the evaluation.
Partners report monthly to HD R&D on standard operating procedure (SOP) development, fuel consumption, and repairs. The user feedback is essential in evaluating the equipments performance, safety and reliability. When warranted and possible, in-field improvements are made to the equipment.
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Operator training in Chile.
The Multi-tool Excavator system in operation in a
minefield in Chile.
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