Packbot looking inside a truck bed
Warrior bot clearing rubble
United States military robots, by iRobot, are helping in the recovery efforts in Japan. Two specific extensible used field robots, the "PackBot" and "Warrior." Two of each have been donated, and for this particular effort a team of 6 people from iRobot are going to help control and train Japan's Ground Self-Defense Force on their operation.
Each one is being used for their specific attributes. The Packbot, being more agile, has been equipped with HazMat sensors and deployed into areas afflicted by chemical or nuclear contamination. The Warrior bot, weighing 347 pounds, is being used for clearing pathways of rubble and firefighting duties. Both of which are being controlled by a human operator up to a half mile away (800 meters). Bot side note: Operators can use a Playstation or Xbox controller to work the bots.
Warrior bot (lower) loading/unleading a Packbot (upper)
Recovery and rescue efforts for the bots is also being planned. These US bots are also joined by two Japanese robot manufacturers.
See more about the iRobot bots including video at their site.
Eavesdropper