Uncrewed ground vehicles put to the test as NATO eyes autonomous shift
Diehl Defence’s UGV won the Mule trial for a second year running. (Photo: Diehl Defence GmbH & Co KG)
The European Land Robot Trials are influenced by NATO researchers seeking to create uncrewed ground vehicle standards for allied Western forces working in multinational task forces.
Uncrewed ground vehicles (UGVs) have long been overshadowed by their naval and aerial counterparts but are increasingly coming into their own for battlefield roles like reconnaissance, threat detection, demining or casualty evacuation. Recent developments in the capability were demonstrated at this year’s 2026 European Land Robot Trial (ELROB), which took place on 15-19 June.
ELROB was originally created after a suggestion from NATO to test uncrewed systems in realistic operational environment, leading the German Bundeswehr to set up the event. Specialists in robotics, 3D technologies and agentic AI from startups, university research departments and major defence manufacturers now attend ELROB to show off
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Land Warfare
-
![Boxer lands another order as contracts and opportunities build momentum]()
Boxer lands another order as contracts and opportunities build momentum
As Germany prepares its €25 billion order under the Arminius framework – the biggest Boxer procurement to date – the platform could become an increasingly powerful contender in European competitions.
-
![British Army Land Rover replacement plan inches forward]()
British Army Land Rover replacement plan inches forward
The UK Ministry of Defence has proposed a selection date of May 2027 for the Land Rover replacement requirement, with deliveries expected through to 2036. Next month’s DVD exhibition will be a key shop window for bidders.
-
![Snow patrol and access all areas: the Arctic all-terrain vehicles market grows]()
Snow patrol and access all areas: the Arctic all-terrain vehicles market grows
The procurement and planned procurement of articulated tracked all-terrain vehicles is being driven by a need to replace older platforms and an acknowledgement of a capability gap for Arctic regions.
-
![Push strengthens for a second JLTV supplier]()
Push strengthens for a second JLTV supplier
A move, launched in May, could lead to a second supplier for the US Marines Corps’ Joint Light Tactical Vehicle requirement. Meanwhile, Wisconsin elected representatives have been pushing for necessary funding to be included in the FY27 budget.
