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.
US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) has released the latest technology solicitation of its five-year long TALOS (Tactical Assault Light Operator Suit) programme.
A series of Requests for Proposals (RfPs) will focus on the protection element of the TALOS solution with particular emphasis on ‘personal armour design’ concepts and helmet technology, a USSOCOM source informed Shephard.
TALOS will equip next-generation warfighters for military operations in urban terrain and the Command wants to unveil a fifth-generation working prototype by 2018.
The progression follows exoskeleton tests in October which saw US Marine Corps Special Operations Command (MARSOC) operators completing an
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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.