A new type of robot that can remove explosives fixed by screws and ropes was unveiled in China on Nov. 26, chinanews.com reported.

Unlike traditional explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) robots that require manual control, the new model is able to do the removal task by itself. It is the first of its kind in the world.

In addition, the new robot is also equipped with an explosion-proof tank to isolate the dismantled explosive.

Under traditional manual operation, EOD personnel are at risk during the detection, disposal, transfer, and destruction of explosives.

“With this robot, EOD personnel can operate at locations 100 meters away from the site,” said Xiangli Xiaojun, a researcher at an EOD test center of the Public Security Department of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.

A dock to connect an interferometer is another highlight. Xiangli told chinanews.com that the interferometer must be turned on during removal in case the explosive detonates. This robot is the first robot to offer such a function.