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.
Soldier situational awareness improvement efforts are essential for the US Army, as shown by programmes such as the Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS) which employs a combination of technologies and AR capabilities in a wearable device.
While IVAS development continues, a study from the US Army Research Laboratory (ARL) is using AR to develop a new technique for enhancing optronic devices.
The new approach uses low-contrast dimming to overcome bright ambient daylight, thereby allowing dismounted troops to acquire targets more efficiently.
ARL neuroscience researcher Chou Hung explained to Shephard that the study focuses on scenarios where there is a large
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.