Rheinmetall takes the lead in European development programmeReference: Rheinmetall
Image: Rheinmetall
The European Defence Agency (EDA) has given a green light to an ambitious development project under the leadership of Rheinmetall Defence of Düsseldorf, Germany. The EDA has contracted with Rheinmetall Defence and three other companies (Diehl BGT Defence, ECA and Thales Optronique) to develop an unmanned vehicle platform and construct a demonstrator version that should show the potential of systems of this kind. In particular, the project seeks to demonstrate the future role that unmanned vehicles could play in protecting troops deployed in hazardous operations.
The Semi-Autonomous Unmanned Ground Vehicle System Demonstrator (SAM-UGV), as it is tentatively known, will be a wheeled, all-terrain vehicle weighing between 300 and 400 kilos, roughly the size of a quad bike. Thanks to its built-in navigation system and sophisticated computer technology, it will be able to conduct a variety of missions by remote control as well as operating autonomously. The vehicle is to have a range of 400 kilometres, and be able to operate for periods of up to 24 hours.
The Semi-Autonomous Unmanned Ground Vehicle System Demonstrator (SAM-UGV), as it is tentatively known, will be a wheeled, all-terrain vehicle weighing between 300 and 400 kilos, roughly the size of a quad bike. Thanks to its built-in navigation system and sophisticated computer technology, it will be able to conduct a variety of missions by remote control as well as operating autonomously. The vehicle is to have a range of 400 kilometres, and be able to operate for periods of up to 24 hours.
As well as performing long-range patrolling and monitoring missions, the SAM-UGV will be able to carry out NBC reconnaissance operations in potentially contaminated terrain. The system’s suitability as a means of searching for improvised explosive devices will also be studied, responding to the acute threat these currently pose to forces deployed in global conflict zones. Besides a satellite-supported inertial navigation system, the vehicle will feature a 3D laser radar, a camera system and ultrasonic sensors, enabling it to cope with its surroundings and avoid obstacles.
