A SWAT robot, a remote-controlled small tank-like vehicle with a shield for officers, is demonstrated for the media in Sanford, Maine on Thursday, April 18, 2013. Howe & Howe Technologies, a Waterboro, Maine company, says their device keeps SWAT teams and other first responders safe in standoffs and while confronting armed suspects. Police now typically use hand-held shields when storming a building. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty)

A Maine company that's developed manned and unmanned tanks with names like "Ripsaw" and "Riptide" for the military and Hollywood filmmakers has unveiled a new contraption—a high-tech police shield that sits atop a miniature, remote-controlled tank-like vehicle.

Brothers Michael and Geoff Howe say the "SWAT robot" keeps SWAT teams and other first responders safe in standoffs and while confronting armed suspects. It also can provide cover from suspected explosive devices, like those set off Monday at the Boston Marathon.

Howe and Howe Technologies Inc. developed the machine with Massachusetts State Police. It was unveiled Thursday at the Sanford Police Department.

Police Chief Thomas Connolly heads a regional tactical police squad that has tested the device. He says it give officers a "huge tactical advantage."

Explore further Robot firefighters help mitigate hazardous conditions

Copyright 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.