New UGV Provides Both Situational Awareness and Frontline Fire Support

This post is also available in: עברית (Hebrew)

Autonomous robotic vehicles offer countless advantages, including in a reconnaissance context. A new model joining the Rheinmetall’s Mission Master Autonomous – Unmanned Ground Vehicle (A-UGV) family is the Mission Master – Armed Reconnaissance. 

Equipped with intelligence-gathering technology and a remote-controlled weapon station (RCWS), the new module is designed to collect tactical intelligence in the area of operations while providing frontline fire support whenever necessary.

The system is designed to execute high-risk scouting missions and deliver a real-time common operating picture without putting soldiers in danger. Since an enormous volume of data is gathered during missions of this type, the new A-UGV is equipped with resilient, highly reliable systems. Its payload consists of long-range EO/IR sensors, a surveillance radar, a 360° full ring camera, a laser rangefinder and a laser designator to identify potential threats. To further enhance the line of sight for the sensors while keeping a concealed posture, the reconnaissance payload is installed on a 3.5-metre extendable mast with a tilting mechanism. 

The Armed Reconnaissance module also features radio-agnostic architecture, which means it can accommodate any type of radio that customers may need. 

The system owes its autonomous functions to the Rheinmetall PATH autonomous kit (A-kit). Proven, agnostic, trusted and highly autonomous, PATH is designed to enable military vehicles to operate in unmanned mode, freeing up soldiers for other duties and keeping them out of immediate danger. The A-kit provides a wide range of teleoperation options for the Mission Master, including a tablet, smartwatch, soldier system, and single-hand controller. These devices enable full access to advanced PATH features such as follow-me, convoy and autonomous navigation modes. Each control mode incorporates multiple layers of protection to ensure that the vehicle operates safely at all times. 

The addition of the Armed Reconnaissance to the Mission Master suite turns the company’s Wolf Pack concept into a reality. The Wolf Pack consists of multiple Mission Master vehicles efficiently operating as a team in order to accomplish missions of all types, including zone surveillance, reconnaissance, etc. All units communicate with each other and use artificial intelligence to maintain the total situational awareness necessary for carrying out their missions, according to the company’s website.