Two new Liebherr Crawler Dozers, equipped with the advanced LiReCon remote control system, are playing a pivotal role in supporting munitions clearance and disaster recovery operations for the Austrian Armed Forces. These machines, deployed at the Allentsteig military training ground in Lower Austria, bring a significant boost to safety in areas with multiple unexploded munitions, allowing for operations in otherwise hazardous environments.
Under contract with the Federal Ministry of Defence, Liebherr delivered two Generation 8 PR 726 Crawler Dozers in the summer of 2024. The delivery was accompanied by comprehensive training and instruction on the new LiReCon system. These teleoperable dozers enable the Austrian Armed Forces to conduct driverless operations, increasing safety while clearing areas with potential explosive threats and assisting in disaster recovery missions.
The LiReCon system revolutionizes day-to-day operations, enhancing safety and efficiency. Using a teleoperation stand and high-resolution video signals, the system offers flexible remote control, allowing access to areas that are difficult to reach or hazardous. The most notable feature of the LiReCon system is its ability to operate in dangerous environments. Whether it’s dealing with unexploded munitions or conducting disaster recovery operations, this remote-controlled system ensures the safety of personnel by removing the need for them to be physically present in high-risk zones.
Equipped with cameras that provide real-time video transmission, the system gives operators different views of the work area from multiple angles. Microphones capture machine noises, and radio receivers ensure seamless communication with the remote driver. The main monitor, displaying a high-resolution video feed, offers a comprehensive view of the entire operational environment. An optional active person detection system further enhances safety by identifying individuals or obstacles in the area, preventing accidents and ensuring that operations proceed smoothly.
“LiReCon offers an advanced solution for all Crawler Dozer operations,” says Hansjörg Nocker, Sales Manager at the Liebherr Telfs plant. “It ensures complete integration of the machine and visualization of all relevant machine data. This includes the Liebherr teleoperation stand, which is a state-of-the-art operator station equipped with all the necessary controls and system information.”
The new Liebherr Crawler Dozers, combined with the innovative LiReCon system, are transforming how the Austrian Armed Forces handle munitions clearance and disaster recovery. This cutting-edge technology not only increases operational efficiency but also safeguards the lives of personnel by enabling remote operation in the most dangerous environments.
