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2024-08-07

Metal Minds: UGVs Take Command of the Battlefield

Military Robotics - Part 1

In the ever-evolving landscape of modern warfare, the line between human and machine blurs as military robotics rapidly advances. These intelligent machines are poised to revolutionise the battlefield, not as replacements for soldiers, but as powerful tools designed to enhance operational capabilities and minimise risk to human personnel.

From agile drones scouting enemy positions to bomb disposal robots mitigating explosives threat, military robots are transforming how wars are fought, placing a premium on research and development in this critical field.

This is the first instalment in our series exploring the exhilarating world of Military Robotics. Here, we focus on Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs).

In our upcoming issues, we will explore unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), unmanned maritime vehicles (UMVs), unmanned combat vehicles (UCVs), remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), and Robotised Artillery Systems (RAS).

Categories and Characteristics

Military robots can be categorised by their use, design, and operational capabilities:

Here are some common classifications of military robots:

Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs): Ground-based robots operating without onboard humans, used for reconnaissance, surveillance, logistics support, mine clearance, and sometimes combat. They range from small, agile robots to large, heavily armoured vehicles.

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs): Also known as drones, these remotely piloted or autonomous aircraft are used for reconnaissance, surveillance, intelligence gathering, and offensive operations. They vary in size from small tactical drones to large, long-endurance platforms.

Unmanned Maritime Vehicles (UMVs): Used in naval and maritime operations, including unmanned surface vessels (USVs) for tasks like mine countermeasures, patrol, and surveillance, and unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) for underwater reconnaissance, mapping, and deploying sensors or munitions.

Unmanned Combat Vehicles (UCVs): UCVs are autonomous or remote-controlled vehicles designed for combat operations. They are equipped with weapons systems and sensors for engaging targets and supporting ground forces in offensive and defensive operations.

Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs): Specialised robots used for bomb disposal, explosive ordnance disposal and handling hazardous materials, controlled remotely to keep operators at a safe distance.

Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs): These are unmanned underwater vehicles operating autonomously for underwater surveying, environmental monitoring, exploration, and scientific research.

Robotised Artillery Systems (RAS): Robotic platforms designed to handle and deploy artillery weapons, enhancing accuracy, deployment speed, and reducing physical strain on artillery crews.

These classifications showcase the diverse capabilities of military robots, enhancing effectiveness and reducing risks.

UGVs: A Closer Look

UGVs offer comprehensive solutions, minimising casualties and reducing personnel deployment. They excel in deterrence, reconnaissance, identification, early warning, containment, and threat neutralisation. With advanced sensors, they provide all-weather capabilities, high-performance navigation, and obstacle detection and avoidance, crucial for autonomous operation in complex environments.

Using Global Positioning System (GPS), Differential Global Positioning System (DGPS), Inertial Navigation System (INS), compasses, and odometers, UGVs ensure precise control. Fusion algorithms enhance situational awareness, while predictive algorithms anticipate events in real-time.

The military ground robots market shows robust growth, driven by demand for enhanced surveillance and reconnaissance, rising global defence expenditures, and advancements in robotics and artificial intelligence. Concerns for personnel safety in conflict zones and the need for efficient operations spur ongoing research and development in this field.

Tactical Evolution

The military ground robots market is shifting towards autonomous models with advanced sensors, adaptable for patrolling, intelligence gathering, and reconnaissance. There’s rising demand for agile robots in urban warfare, overcoming vehicle limitations. Key uses include urban and remote surveillance, bomb disposal and autonomous logistics for supply transport across tough terrains. These robots aid combat by engaging enemies and backing soldiers. In disasters, they help rescue civilians and soldiers from danger.

Major Players in Ground Robotics

The military ground robots sector is a rapidly growing field with fierce competition. Established giants like Milrem and ADASI are joined by a host of innovative companies offering advanced autonomous systems for diverse defence applications.

Key players in this sector also include BAE Systems, Elbit Systems, Teledyne FLIR Systems, General Dynamics Corp., Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Oshkosh Defense, QinetiQ Ltd., ECA Group, General Robotics, Rheinmetall and Textron Systems.

Let’s embark on an in-depth exploration of a few of the notable UGVs.

Milrem Gets an EDGE

Milrem Robotics, based in Estonia, specialises in developing advanced robotics and autonomous systems for challenging environments. Recently acquired by the UAE’s EDGE Group, Milrem Robotics is known for its THeMIS and Multiscope UGVs, the Type-X robotic combat vehicle, and the MIFIK land vehicle autonomy package.

The THeMIS UGV, operational in numerous NATO countries and beyond, is versatile and can be configured for transport, weaponisation, ordnance disposal, or intelligence operations. It supports dismounted soldiers, enhances mobility, and aids logistical activities. The THeMIS Combat variant offers direct fire support with integrated weapon systems, enhancing precision and survivability on the battlefield.

Milrem’s Type-X robotic combat vehicle supports mechanised units, equipped with autocannons to engage and flank enemy targets while minimising risks to troops. It prioritises upgradeability and cost-effective maintenance, enhancing troop survivability through increased standoff distances from adversaries.

Milrem Robotics’ innovations in unmanned systems underscore its commitment to enhancing defence capabilities, from intelligence gathering and surveillance to combat support, across a spectrum of military and commercial applications.

ADASI ARV: Next-Gen Autonomous Capability

ADASI, headquartered in the UAE and a subsidiary of the EDGE Group, is a prominent player in the autonomous systems industry in the MENA region. One of its notable offerings is the AJBAN Armed Robotic Vehicle (ARV), which enhances the capabilities of the NIMR Ajban 440 by integrating an unmanned override kit.

The ARV features a remote-controlled weapon station, empowering operators to manage both vehicle and weapon systems from a safe distance. It ensures robust situational awareness, operating seamlessly in day and night conditions. It also offers flexibility with its ability to switch between manned and unmanned modes, significantly reducing personnel exposure to potential threats.

By enabling remote operation of vehicle functions and weapon systems, the ARV enhances safety by minimising personnel risk in hostile environments. ADASI’s ARV stands as a testament to advancing defence capabilities with cutting-edge autonomous technologies.

BAE’s UGVs Lead the Charge

BAE Systems excels in military robotics, leveraging its defence legacy to develop ground robots like the Ironclad UGV and Black Knight unmanned ground vehicle. These technologies enhance armed forces’ operational capabilities significantly.

Ironclad is a multifunctional unmanned ground vehicle (MUGV) designed to solve combat tasks, material, technical, medical support in the tactical chain of command. It can perform these tasks both as part of the surveillance and fire complex and independently under the operator’s control.

Ironclad executes tasks based on the expanded network of deployable control rooms (PU), a system of repeaters (ground, air) with regular fire means of divisions of tactical link. The operator can manage the unmanned ground vehicle both teleoperated (LOS) and use deployed repeater-based communication networks.

It is small enough to negotiate tight urban environments, but maintains the mobility needed to handle extreme cross-country terrain. It can also be fitted to carry out reconnaissance, combat and casualty evacuation roles.

Elbit’s ROOK UGV Excels in Urban Warfare

Elbit Systems Ltd., based in Israel, is renowned for its advanced ground robots like the ROOK, VIPeR, and Seagull autonomous vehicles. Its flagship innovation, Legion-X, revolutionises combat with autonomous networked solutions, enabling tactical superiority across domains. Legion-X UGVs provide high mobility and all-terrain manoeuvrability, carrying heavy payloads and operating in teleoperated or autonomous modes under extreme conditions.

Elbit’s ROOK UGV excels in urban warfare and border protection, enhancing frontline effectiveness. Part of the Legion-X robotic and autonomous combat solution, the ROOK is a highly mobile 6×6 unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) designed for all-terrain manoeuverability, ideal for both close and long-range operations in extreme conditions. Built to handle heavy payloads, this versatile UGV supports a wide range of missions including urban warfare, battalion manoeuvres, and border protection, enhancing frontline effectiveness and survivability.

Equipped for teleoperation, fully autonomous beyond-line-of-sight (BLOS) operations, and multi-domain autonomous swarming, the ROOK features a spacious loading platform capable of carrying up to 1200 kg at speeds of 30 kph. Its capabilities extend to transporting various sensors, weapon stations, and other critical payloads, making it a robust asset in diverse operational scenarios.

The PROBOT platform, also part of Legion-X, offers robust, lightweight tactical support with high mobility in various environments, integrating seamlessly into logistics, medevac, and ISR operations. Featuring advanced Terrain Classification technology, PROBOT ensures efficient mission planning and execution, supporting manual or autonomous operation modes.

Teledyne’s SUGV 325 Packs a Punch

Teledyne FLIR Defense, part of Teledyne Technologies Incorporated, launched the SUGV 325 at Eurosatory, a portable and modular UGV designed for dismounted and mobile operations. Weighing just 20 pounds in its lightest configuration, the SUGV 325 is rugged enough for rough terrain and stair climbing, featuring a versatile manipulator arm with five degrees of freedom for precise tasks.

It integrates High Definition (HD) visible, long wave infrared (LWIR), and stitched 360-degree cameras, along with 30x optical zoom and two-way audio communication, enhancing its capabilities for military applications such as surveillance, reconnaissance, Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD), and Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) inspection.

Teledyne FLIR’s PackBot 510 is another standout product, offering bomb disposal, surveillance, and HazMat handling capabilities. It features a robust design allowing for deployment by one person in under two minutes, with advanced sensor capabilities and real-time data transmission using the uPoint Multi-Robot Control System.

The FirstLook robot, weighing 6.6 lb, provides immediate situational awareness and operates in tight spaces, climbing obstacles and self-righting when overturned. It integrates multiple cameras and optional CBRN/HazMat sensors, ensuring safety and efficiency in hazardous environments.

General Dynamics’ UGVs Lighten the Load

General Dynamics, a leading defence contractor, produces several UGVs designed to lighten soldier load and enhance battlefield capabilities.

The MUTT UGV is a first-of-its-kind system selected by the U.S. Army for its S-MET programme.

This semi-autonomous robot offers easy control methods and can be equipped with various payloads for tasks like resupply, reconnaissance, and defence. MUTT’s adoption by a major NATO military signifies the growing importance of UGVs in modern warfare.

The TRX, another UGV by General Dynamics, falls under the Robotic Combat Vehicle-Medium (RCV-M) class. Featuring AI, lightweight materials, and a hybrid-electric system, the TRX boasts superior payload capacity and power. This multirole platform is designed for diverse missions like direct fire, obstacle breaching, and electronic warfare.

General Dynamics’ UGVs, like the MUTT and TRX, represent a significant advancement in military logistics and combat effectiveness.

Lockheed’s SMSS — A Multi-Role Workhorse

Lockheed Martin leads in military robotics with innovations like the Squad Mission Support System (SMSS), which provides logistical and operational support solutions. The company continues to invest significantly in research and development to expand its product lineup and maintain a competitive edge.

The system leverages robotic technologies for unmanned transport and logistical support for light, early entry and special operations forces. It solves capability gaps by lightening the warfighter’s load, serving as a power management resource, and providing a versatile utility platform for various Mission Equipment Packages.

The SMSS is capable of autonomous navigation and operation in various terrains and environments. It can follow pre-programmed routes or operate under remote control, allowing it to perform missions without constant human oversight. It has a payload capacity of up to 1,200 pounds (approximately 544 kilogrammes).

This allows it to carry a wide range of supplies, equipment, and provisions needed by infantry squads, reducing the physical burden on soldiers. The system is designed to support a variety of missions, including resupply operations, casualty evacuation (medevac), and reconnaissance. Its adaptability makes it suitable for different roles in combat and non-combat scenarios.

The vehicle is planned with modularity in mind, allowing for easy integration of different mission-specific payloads and equipment. This flexibility enables it to be tailored for specific mission requirements quickly and efficiently. Built to withstand harsh environments and rugged terrain, the SMSS features robust construction and advanced mobility capabilities. It can traverse uneven terrain, cross obstacles, and operate in challenging conditions typically encountered in military operations.

Northrop’s CUTLASS: Game-Changer in EOD

Northrop Grumman stands out with its CUTLASS robot, a game-changer in Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD). This modular UGV keeps personnel safe by remotely handling hazardous threats.

CUTLASS boasts a versatile design, carrying all the necessary tools and sensors for EOD tasks, eliminating the need for multiple robots. Its state-of-the-art gripper and nine-degree-of-freedom arm ensure precise manipulation in confined spaces, minimising property damage and preserving evidence.

The combination of speed, manoeuvrability, and tool carrying capacity allows for faster response and scene restoration compared to other UGVs. Its six-wheeled design tackles any terrain, ensuring all-weather effectiveness.

U.S. Army’s Scout, Escort and Striker

The U.S. Army is forging the future of combat with its Robotic Combat Vehicle (RCV) Programme. Four companies are competing to develop prototypes for this multi-phase initiative.

Team Oshkosh, comprising industry leaders, is at the forefront. Its RCV-Light solution focuses on direct infantry support, offering both intelligence gathering and lethal firepower. Building on existing prototypes, Team Oshkosh aims for a mature, low-risk platform.

The Oshkosh RCV envisions a broader role: a remotely operated scout, escort, and multi-domain strike asset. It boasts capabilities like electronic warfare and counter-unmanned aerial systems, enhancing battlefield awareness and troop safety. Modular design ensures flexibility for various payloads and weapon systems.

The RCV-L from Team Oshkosh exemplifies this vision. This diesel-electric hybrid boasts a 40mph top speed and 7,000-pound payload capacity, alongside offensive and defensive weaponry. This programme represents a significant step towards integrating robots into the U.S. Army’s arsenal, fostering a future of collaborative human-machine combat.

QinetiQ’s UGVs Defuse Danger

QinetiQ specialises in developing UGVs tailored for military and commercial applications. Their TALON UGV excels in explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) and reconnaissance with remote operation capabilities, designed for hazardous environments. The Dragon Runner is compact and agile, ideal for urban operations, surveillance, and small payload deliveries.

For heavier tasks, the Titan UGV supports logistics, casualty evacuation, and combat engineering missions with its robust chassis and high payload capacity.

The Observer UGV enhances situational awareness through advanced sensors and cameras, crucial for reconnaissance and surveillance without risking personnel.

QinetiQ collaborates with Milrem Robotics on the Titan, featuring a reconfigurable platform with diesel-electric hybrid drive modules for all-terrain endurance and mission adaptability. This partnership ensures enhanced operational safety and effectiveness across diverse military operations.

ECA’s UGVs — Tailored Solutions for Explosives Threat

ECA Group designs and manufactures advanced UGVs for diverse applications including IED/EOD, demining, and trap removal operations. Its combat-proven UGVs like the UGV COBRA MK2, CAMELEON, and IGUANA are operational with global Police and Army units, including in France.

The CAMELEON LG E is a lightweight, high-endurance mini UGV designed for IEDD & EOD missions. Its modular architecture and Plug & Play system support various payloads, enabling rapid deployment in harsh environments. Resilient (IP65) to dust, water, and shocks, it operates in challenging conditions and fits into military vehicles without additional storage. Its agility, off-road capabilities, and high-resolution cameras enable thorough inspections in urban and rough terrains.

The IGUANA E UGV excels in confined and inaccessible environments, enhancing IED/EOD capabilities with versatile payloads and quick deployment options. Its user-friendly Operator Control Unit ensures operational efficiency in demanding conditions.

ECA Group’s expertise extends to UAVs for surveillance, target acquisition (ISTAR), and electronic intelligence missions (SIGINT/IMINT).

GD’s TRX in RCV Race

General Dynamics Land Systems is one of four companies selected by the U.S. Army to compete for its Robotic Combat Vehicle programme of record. General Dynamics Land Systems will design, build and deliver two prototypes of its modular TRX (Tracked Robot 10-tonne) robotic combat vehicle in Phase I of the multi-phase competition. The prototypes will be delivered to the Army soon to support platform mobility testing and a Soldier touchpoint.

TRX supports Army objectives for a robotic combat vehicle that is highly portable and provides significant growth, interoperability and modularity to accommodate a range of future mission modules and payloads. TRX is built to manoeuvre at speed with all formations and has a class-leading payload-to-chassis ratio of 1:1.

Its architecture enables it to support RCV platform requirements and future growth. It generates substantial exportable power to support mission command operations and is hybrid-electric, in support of the Army’s climate and electrification strategy.

TRX features innovative thinking, ranging from its AI-enhanced design to advanced, lightweight materials and a hybrid-electric propulsion system. Its power and size make it an ideal platform for multirole Human Machine Integration on today’s battlefield.

Silent & Lethal: Rheinmetall’s A-UGVs

The Rheinmetall Mission Master is a family of autonomous ground vehicles designed to support troops in various missions. They offer reconnaissance, surveillance, fire support, medical evacuation, and more. Each vehicle integrates with soldier systems and command software for seamless communication.

The Mission Master SP is a low-profile electric vehicle excelling in stealth and agility. It’s ideal for resupply, silent watch, and carrying light payloads. The Mission Master CXT boasts extreme-terrain mobility and amphibious capabilities. This hybrid vehicle silently transports heavy payloads (1000kg) even in harsh conditions. Its diesel engine combined with electric motor offers a 450km range and silent operation.

The Mission Master XT is another rugged option for challenging environments. It can travel 750km without refuelling and features a battery for silent operations. This vehicle can handle heavier payloads and larger optics compared to the SP and CXT models.

All Mission Master vehicles rely on the Rheinmetall PATH autonomy kit for navigation and driving. This kit allows for unmanned operation, freeing up soldiers for other tasks. It offers various teleoperation options for control and prioritises safety measures.

RIPSAW Rumbles into RCV Arena

Team RIPSAW, a collaboration between Textron Systems, Howe & Howe, and Teledyne FLIR Defense, is vying for a spot in the U.S. Army’s RCV programme.

By 2024, it is expected to deliver two RIPSAW M3 prototypes for testing.

This rugged, reliable platform boasts an open architecture design, allowing for various payloads and mission flexibility. It’s built with transportability and adaptability in mind, ready for the evolving battlefield.

Team RIPSAW’s investment in the RIPSAW family since 2019, with over 2,000 miles of testing, showcases its commitment to developing combat-ready robotic vehicles.

The Advancement of Battlefield Bots

Driven by a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) exceeding 10 per cent, the military ground robots market is experiencing a boom. This surge stems from the growing adoption of unmanned warfare strategies and increased government investment in UGVs to bolster national security and operational efficiency.

Advancements in AI and robotics are key, empowering UGVs with greater autonomy and advanced mission capabilities. Cutting-edge sensors and communication systems enhance their effectiveness.

These developments not only minimise human risk but also facilitate remote operations in hazardous environments and heighten battlefield awareness.

With such promising outlooks and continuous breakthroughs, military ground robots are poised to revolutionise global defence operations.

(Get Ready for Take-off: Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in our next issue)

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