Clearer military requirements could unlock UGV market growth
Western armies continue to test uncrewed ground vehicles, but wider procurement will depend on turning ambitions for autonomy into defined operational roles and funded requirements.
Polaris had four disparate vehicles from its range on display at Land Forces 2016 in Adelaide, with the Australian Defence Force (ADF) subsequently set to test them over a two-week period in September.
The four-seat 4x4 MRZR-D4 (pictured above) is notable for its turbo-diesel engine. It was introduced in response to a number of militaries asking for a diesel engine. A diesel/JP-8-fuelled engine offers compatibility with other military vehicles as well as reducing the fire risk.
A 993cc engine propels the MRZR-D4 to a top speed of 115km/h, and it can carry a 680kg onboard payload. A collapsible roll cage
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
Western armies continue to test uncrewed ground vehicles, but wider procurement will depend on turning ambitions for autonomy into defined operational roles and funded requirements.
Framework contracts and leasing options aim to shorten acquisition timelines, while manufacturing partnerships could help suppliers scale production to meet allied demand.
The US is pursuing multiple UGV programmes, from commercial robotic platforms to new autonomy technologies. The combination of these efforts could prove key to turning ambition into operational capability.
NATO is looking to artificial intelligence to provide integration between different C2 systems to create a common operational picture, potentially offering a faster route to interoperability than the slow-moving processes of NATO standards committees.
The large-scale exercise in Latvia was the culmination of three experimentation initiatives to see how platforms, weapons and systems could fit into the alliance’s Eastern Flank Deterrence Initiative. As well as forces, it brought together companies and equipment.
Canada plans to acquire at least 120 uncrewed aerial systems through two competitions with combined funding ceilings of C$32 million.