ReconRobotics Throwbot 2 — Specs & Review
Specifications
| Brand | ReconRobotics |
|---|---|
| Model | Throwbot 2 |
| Year | 2012 |
| Category | Search Rescue, Defence Tactical |
| Autonomy | remote-controlled |
| Environment | both |
| Connectivity | Dedicated RF Controller, Operator Display Unit |
| Country of origin | US |
Key features
- 1.2 lb throwable reconnaissance robot
- Survives 7m throw without damage
- 360° omnidirectional low-light camera
- Live video and two-way audio streaming
- 60-minute runtime
- Deployed by US Army, USMC, and SWAT departments
- Cargo-pocket portable — no deployment vehicle required
What is it?
The Throwbot 2 is a palm-sized throwable ground robot that fits in a cargo pocket, can be thrown through a window or over a wall, and immediately streams live video and audio to a paired operator display. It self-rights after landing and rolls autonomously under operator control.
Who is it for?
Law enforcement SWAT and tactical teams requiring instant pre-entry reconnaissance in building clearance and hostage rescue. Military special operations teams needing room reconnaissance before entry in urban combat. Search and rescue teams deploying into rubble or confined spaces to locate survivors. First responders conducting HAZMAT reconnaissance without personnel entry.
Key specs
- Weight: 1.2 lbs (545 g)
- Throw range: Up to 7 m (23 ft) without damage
- Camera: Omnidirectional (360° wide-angle low-light)
- Video: Live streaming to operator display unit
- Audio: Two-way audio
- Control: Dedicated operator display with joystick
- Runtime: ~60 minutes
- Deployment: US Army, USMC, SWAT departments, SAR teams
- Origin: US
Tactical significance
The Throwbot fills the specific gap between grenades (lethal, no information) and conventional robots (too large, too slow to deploy) in tactical pre-entry reconnaissance. A 1.2-pound robot can be thrown into a room in under two seconds — providing immediate room imagery before the first officer enters. In hostage rescue, this changes the tactical picture entirely.
How it compares
Throwbot 2 competes with Agility Robotics DragonRunner (slightly larger, military EOD focus) and FLIR Endeavor (similar category). Throwbot's sub-1.5lb weight and throw-and-forget deployment ease are market-defining characteristics.
Limitations
- No manipulator — reconnaissance only, no EOD capability
- Camera low-resolution vs contemporary smartphones
- Limited control range (RF, typically <100m in line of sight)
- 60-minute runtime may limit in extended operations
- No autonomous navigation — fully teleoperated
FAQ
How far can Throwbot 2 be thrown?
Throwbot 2 is rated to survive throws of up to 7 metres (23 feet) without damage. It self-rights after landing and can be driven by the operator via the handheld display.
What does Throwbot 2 see?
Throwbot 2 has an omnidirectional (360°) wide-angle low-light camera that streams live video to the operator's display, providing room situational awareness immediately after landing.
Is Throwbot 2 used by the US military?
Yes. Throwbot 2 is deployed by US Army and US Marine Corps infantry and special operations units, as well as hundreds of US law enforcement SWAT departments for tactical pre-entry reconnaissance.
Can Throwbot 2 open doors or handle objects?
No. Throwbot 2 is a reconnaissance-only platform with no manipulator arm. It provides visual and audio intelligence only. For EOD or object manipulation, a platform like QinetiQ Talon or Teledyne FLIR PackBot is required.