Soldiers will see a "new age" of ground robots, according to Army robotics managers.
Between 2019 and 2024, possible autonomous and semi-autonomous ground robots include mine-clearers, surveillance systems and supply vehicles, according to Scott Davis, program executive officer for Combat Support and Combat Service Support.
Davis, who spoke at the National Defense Industrial Association's Ground Robotics Capabilities Conference and Exhibition, said the current hodgepodge of disparate, non-interchangeable ground robots have become a sustainment burden. "During the last 10 years, the Army purchased more than 7,000 'nonstandard equipment' items such as Talon IV, Packbot 510 FASTAC, SUGV 310 mini-EOD, Dragon Runner and First Look," noted an Army news release on the conference.
The Army has just begun the Robotics Enhancement Program (REP). Davis listed several hardware and software upgrades the Army is seeking for existing robots, including "incremental hardware and software enhancements to existing systems/chassis; sensor and payload upgrades; modularity; open architecture in IOP, or, in- and out-processing software; standardization; miniaturization and light weight; and intelligent behavior."
Davis sketched the Army's plans for several robots, including
- The Man-Transportable Robotics System Mark II, which will use an existing platform, controller and base software. The Army will focus on developing several mission-specific payloads for it.
- The Husky Mounted Detection System will have a deep detection system added to its current ground-penetrating radar, as well as a road-clearance integration system.
- The Route Clearance and Interrogation System will be used at the squad level to transport gear and augment convoys in semi-autonomous mode. It will also have digging capability and some other functions.
- The Common Robotic System Individual, designed to be carried by individual soldiers, will not exceed 25 pounds, including a 15-pound platform, 5-pound controller and 5-pound payload.
Michael Peck is a correspondent for Defense News and a columnist for the Center for European Policy Analysis. He holds an M.A. in political science from Rutgers University. Find him on X at @Mipeck1. His email is mikedefense1@gmail.com.
