MARCH 202619 ADRIAN DIACONU,CHAIRMANTHE QUIET INNOVATOR BEHIND LIFE-SAVING ROBOTICSAngatec's journey began in 2013 with a clear and deeply rooted mission. A group of engineers came together, driven by a shared purpose, to create something that was both innovative and essential. Their goal was to support those who run toward danger when everyone else retreats.The initial focus was on first responders and firefighters; professionals facing life-threatening risks every day. Recognizing their extraordinary commitment, Angatec set out to equip them with the advanced tools they deserved. The engineers also worked closely with the military, particularly the French ground forces, to better understand operational demands across different environments. Rather than develop separate solutions for civil and military use, the decision was made to combine all requirements into one integrated system.The result was a robust, modular and highly versatile robot that meets the needs of both sectors. It could fight fires, navigate debris, transport the wounded, carry equipment, perform surveillance, and maintain communication in disrupted environments.In essence, it was built to protect and save lives.Angatec's early clarity on how the robot would be used was more important than the technology. The company drew a firm ethical line. The platform would not be weaponized. Its purpose would remain rooted in logistics, rescue, reconnaissance, transport and support. It would serve as a protector, not an aggressor, in war zones or disaster areas."Our robots are built to handle the harshest conditions. They can carry out surveillance, assess the situation, and detect the presence of people. In the field, that level of situational awareness can be a game-changer," says Adrian Diaconu, chairman.CENTERED AROUND THE END USERFrom the beginning, Angatec embedded itself with its users. Rooted in engineering, it did not rely on assumptions about what firefighters or military operators needed. It asked, observed, tested and refined. In France, it worked alongside firefighters in fire response training centers like Valabre, one of Europe's most advanced facilities. The robots were pushed through live fire scenarios, dense smoke, water damage, and unpredictable terrain.Angatec collaborated with experienced firefighting professionals from Portugal, Germany, Spain and Greece. Their input proved invaluable. From fine-tuning the robot's user interface to enhancing its ability to navigate rugged terrain and optimizing its camera systems for low-visibility conditions, every feature was shaped in close collaboration with those who would use it in the field.Angatec is also a core technology partner in the EU-funded CARMA project, which aims to develop interoperable robotic systems to support emergency response across Europe. This collaboration reinforces the company's deep integration into the European civil protection ecosystem.ANGATECDESIGN AND MANUFACTURING COMPANY
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