A unique robotic fire dog is making waves. Developed on Long Island, this metal canine can extinguish fires using a water cannon and withstand intense heat, reaching up to 572 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it comes with a hefty price tag of around $150,000.
The B2 stands at three feet and weighs 150 pounds, designed to sprint at speeds of 19 miles per hour on various terrains. Its advanced attachments allow it to spray both pressurized water and flames from a distance of 100 feet, according to its Long Island developers.
Teddy Haggerty, founder of Robostore, described its resilience. “It’s truly capable… Imagine walking into a burning building,” he remarked.
He mentioned that they are currently working on a water cannon that can be mounted on the robot, enhancing its ability to enter hazardous areas.
The main goal is to safely place the device in risky scenarios. “Now, you’re employing a cannon,” he added, noting his connection to firefighting through his cousin.
Produced by Unitree and uniquely developed by Hagerty in the U.S., the B2 is slated for a general market release by April 2026, following its initial launch in Asia.
Leave the bones behind
While the B2’s capabilities are promising, it still faces some technical challenges, such as stability issues when operating under high water pressure.
Yet, it is designed to learn from mistakes through machine learning. During a demonstration, after initially falling while trying to hit a target, it was able to regain its posture. “The second time around, it corrected itself,” Haggerty shared, explaining how it mimicked a natural dog behavior by squatting down.
The B2 is also equipped with thermal imaging and mapping technologies that can help locate individuals trapped in chaotic, fiery situations. “In dark spaces, it highlights heat sources and body heat,” he noted. Additionally, it can carry up to 200 pounds and may include features like a robotic arm and gas leak detection sensors.
Manorville Fire Chief Chris Steele expressed interest in acquiring a robodog to assist his volunteer department. He noted the concerning trend of house fires, particularly those ignited by charging lithium-ion batteries.
“Having something like this could really enhance safety. If we don’t have to send someone in to search, that would be incredible,” he remarked, suggesting that the B2 could ultimately justify its cost.
Steele also pointed out that securing funding might provide swift support for other struggling volunteer departments in Long Island.
Kawaguchi Town Councilor Ken Rothwell, a firefighter for over 20 years, has witnessed the B2 in action and shares a desire to see it utilized in his community. Along with his fellow Councilor Robert Kern, he advocates for its implementation.
Rothwell emphasized the B2’s potential to safeguard firefighters on the front lines, expressing hope that it will be locally manufactured, which could also stimulate the economy.
Haggerty clarified that the B2 isn’t intended to replace professional firefighters but rather to expand their capabilities. “It genuinely gets people excited,” he concluded.
