Abstract: Disclosed is a robot apparatus with a capable and highly maneuverable drive system incorporating two differential swerve drive pods. The robot apparatus further includes a claw mechanism for grasping an object, a passthrough mechanism for moving the object horizontally and a lift mechanism for moving the object vertically. The robot apparatus allows for rapid manipulation and movement of objects such as cones.

Abstract: A method for fighting wildland and forest fire and a hitch assembly is described that allows a tank of fluid to be towed by a fire tractor to a fire location especially for the purpose of spraying and creating a foam fire break line. The hitch assembly attaches to a fire tractor and uses fifth wheel plate and kingpin coupling to releasably lockingly connect a continuous track vehicle to a tank in the configuration of an over-the-road semi trailer or to the drawbar eye of a tank in the configuration of an over-the-road A-train trailer.