May 5, 2025
In the week commencing 5 May 2025, Birdon successfully delivered a week-long training and demonstration of its latest unmanned wide wet gap crossing technology upgrades at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, culminating in hands-on operation by U.S. Army personnel. The event marked a significant milestone in bridging innovation, showcasing how next-generation capabilities can be integrated into the Army’s existing fleet.
Held in partnership with Glendinning Controls, the demonstration highlighted the power and potential of the upgraded Bridging Erection Boat (BEB). Top leadership from the U.S. Army’s bridging community were on hand to observe and participate in the event.
We demonstrated a nearly unmanned bridging mission, operated entirely from a remote Ground Control Station. Key capabilities demonstrated included:
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Unmanned BEB free-launch from ground transport vehicles
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Advanced station holding through cutting-edge positioning systems
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Waypoint-based route navigation and planning
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Mechanical coupling and decoupling from Improved Ribbon Bridge (IRB) bays
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Manual joystick control for advanced maneuvers such as side-slipping
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Simultaneous dual BEB operation from a single remote on a raft platform
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Live video streaming with zoom and pan functionality
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Agnostic communication link adaptable to various networks
The training followed a structured “crawl, walk, run” approach—beginning with classroom instruction, progressing to live demonstrations, and culminating in full soldier-led operation.
“It was impressive to witness the soldiers’ rapid understanding of the technology,” said Jonathan Buczkowski, Birdon’s Advanced Concept Director. “Even more rewarding was seeing their excitement as they engaged with the new capabilities.”
These innovations significantly enhance the U.S. Army’s ability to perform wide wet gap crossings with increased safety, operational efficiency, and fewer personnel exposed to risk, using the current BEB fleet.
As a long-standing partner in defense innovation, Birdon remains committed to delivering practical, future-focused solutions that empower our warfighters and strengthen mission readiness.