Coral Springs police seek approval to purchase advanced robot for high-risk SWAT operations
Coral Springs, Florida – The Coral Springs Police Department is moving forward with plans to upgrade its tactical capabilities, seeking approval to purchase a new robot designed for high-risk, indoor SWAT operations. The proposed acquisition of the Mini-CALIBER robot from ICOR Technology of Ottawa, Canada, comes at a cost of $107,633.96, according to a city memo, with the city commission scheduled to vote on the contract at its meeting Wednesday.
The department says the new robot is intended to enhance SWAT operations, improve officer safety, and increase operational efficiency, particularly in situations where entering a building or confined space could put officers at risk. The current robot, a 2009 Talon, has served the department for more than a decade but is now considered outdated and lacking the tools needed for modern high-risk incidents.
The memo notes that the aging Talon “is at the end of its service life and lacks the capabilities police need for ‘high-risk incidents.’” In response, the Mini-CALIBER offers a suite of features designed to provide real-time intelligence to officers without placing them directly in danger. Equipped with high-definition video, thermal imaging, and advanced sensors, the robot allows SWAT teams to assess potentially dangerous situations from a safe distance.
Beyond surveillance, the Mini-CALIBER includes specialized attachments that can deploy chemical munitions into barricaded areas, enabling officers to neutralize threats while minimizing the risk of direct confrontation. The department emphasizes that these features not only protect officers but also reduce potential harm to the public during critical incidents.
Police officials argue that the new robot represents a crucial step forward for law enforcement technology in Coral Springs. By leveraging the latest robotic advancements, SWAT teams can gain detailed situational awareness, make more informed decisions, and respond to high-risk scenarios with greater precision. The goal, according to the memo, is to ensure that officers and the community remain as safe as possible while facing potentially volatile situations.
City commissioners will have the opportunity to review the proposed contract during their upcoming meeting, where the decision to approve or deny the purchase will be made. If approved, the Mini-CALIBER will replace the department’s existing Talon and immediately become a core component of Coral Springs’ SWAT operations.
As police departments nationwide continue to adopt technology to enhance tactical response and officer safety, Coral Springs is positioning itself at the forefront of this trend. The new robot is expected to provide officers with tools and intelligence previously unavailable, ultimately strengthening the city’s ability to handle high-risk incidents more safely and effectively.
