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Photos: 'Hero' bot hunts criminals
Robots protect UK borders

By Nick Heath

Published: Thursday 24 July 2008

It might only be the size of a briefcase but an intelligent robot is helping to protect the UK's borders from criminals and terrorists.

The modestly named Hero bot uses its spotlights and high resolution cameras to scan the underside of UK-bound lorries and coaches travelling through Calais - one of Europe's biggest ports.

Up to 10,000 heavy goods vehicles pass through Calais every week on routes that attract many illegal immigrants heading for the UK.

The machine, seen in action here, is made by BAE Systems and is being trialled by UK Border Agency to reduce the heavy demands that searching the underside of vehicles for stowaways and smuggled materials places on staff.

Photo credit: BAE Systems