NEW ORLEANS – The Louisiana National Guard’s 62nd Weapons of Mass Destruction-Civil Support Team has a new robot system, enhancing its ability to gather vital information from potentially hazardous environments.

During a five-day fielding and training course at the Consequence Management Support Center facilities in Lexington, Kentucky, Oct. 28 to Nov. 1, Guard members from across the United States learned how to use and maintain the Man Transportable Robotic System Increment II. The system is an advanced unmanned ground vehicle equipped with specialized chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear equipment. 

Participants practiced maneuvering the UGV, retrieving critical data, and executing precise operations — essential skills for scenarios requiring steady, calculated movements. This training is pivotal for integrating the MTRS Inc II into the team’s procedures for responding to real-world missions.

“The new MTRS provides an 8-hour run time, significantly improved camera quality with advanced zoom and autofocus features, and a 360-degree rotating arm that allows for precise maneuverability and the ability to handle heavier objects without risking damage,” said Sgt. Nicolas Cullop, UGV operator for the 62nd WMD-CST. “This upgraded system enables me to detect and relay crucial information from a safe distance more effectively.”

“The UGV is an excellent tool that not only protects our responders from potential harm but also expedites the information collection process, which can save lives when time is of the essence,” said 2nd Lt. Andy Gonzalez, survey section leader with the 62nd WMD-CST. “Every one of our members competed against their peers to earn a spot on this team. For Sgt. Nicolas Cullop to be chosen as the UGV operator further displays his competence and capabilities and our trust in him as a survey team member.”

Cullop, the designated UGV operator, joined the 62nd WMD-CST in June 2023 and has dedicated over 600 hours to advanced CBRN training. A recent graduate of Air Assault School, Cullop is also pursuing a bachelor’s degree in general studies with a minor in engineering at Southeastern Louisiana University. With aspirations of commissioning, Cullop represents the future leadership and expertise within the Louisiana National Guard.

The MTRS Inc II is a crucial CBRN asset to the 62nd WMD-CST, reinforcing the team’s mission to detect, identify and mitigate CBRN threats from a safe distance. This capability enables the team to assess potential hazards effectively, advise on response strategies, and assist with additional support for incidents involving weapons of mass destruction, toxic industrial chemicals and materials, and unintentional or intentional CBRN releases. 

The 62nd WMD-CST includes 22 Active Guard Reserve members from the Army and Air Force who are ready to respond 24/7.