RBSL-Led Consortium Working on British Army’s Future UGV Study

The consortium led by Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL) is exploring new approaches to UGVs as part of its wider Mounted Combat Systems research project.

The study was initiated by UK MOD’s Defence, Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) for the British Army. RBSL is leading a consortium of UK companies – Prodrive, ARKE, Think!Creative, Cranfield University and BAE Systems – to explore concepts for a new UGV.

The team’s primary goal has been to enable the development of a more robust, agile and efficient platform that can operate at high tempo and within the decision cycle of opposing forces.  The vehicle should also include an amphibious capability that enhances its mobility and effectiveness across a range of terrains.

The study also aims to demonstrate how UGV capabilities can be integrated with other crewed platforms in manoeuvre warfare, providing an insight into what the British Army’s future force may look like.

RBSL and its partners are developing solutions in two phases, the first using currently available or mature technologies, and the second using technologies that are likely to be available in 10+ years. The consortium is focusing on medium-weight platforms (c. 2-5 tonnes), which ensures the UGVs can carry a range of critical payloads for re-supply, casualty evacuation, reconnaissance, weapons platforms, decoys and communication.

The programme is sustaining highly-skilled roles within the consortium and creating potential export opportunities for the UK.  It is also providing opportunities to use new technologies to integrate into UK defence capabilities, leading to significant operational advantage.