Will robots change ground combat paradigm?
Dull, dirty and dangerous work is still the raison d'être of remotely operated machines, even when these systems are developing rapidly. The value of such platforms, originally used mainly for reconnaissance at close range and for neutralizing explosive objects, is constantly growing. The scope of their activities is gradually expanding, they perform tasks not only logistical support, including the supply of ammunition and evacuation of the wounded, but also combat support in the case of installing weapon systems.
Uranium-9 at the stand of the Kalashnikov Concern at the exhibition Army 2018; This remote-controlled vehicle has passed military tests in Syria.
The operating experience of remotely controlled machines (DMM) has influenced the change of some priorities aimed at reducing the logistic load and increasing the flexibility of application. The military is currently looking for systems that can use a common universal controller, have a single chassis configuration that allows you to take a different target load, that is, platforms with an increased level of modularity.
The choice of DUMs on the market is extremely diverse, ranging from nanomachines to heavy multi-ton systems. In the same article, the latter will be considered, especially those equipped with one or another weapon system. Armed Robots are the subject of fierce discussions related to ethical, legal issues, etc., although some countries have already begun to deploy them, mainly for evaluation and development of the concept of combat use. For example, in May 2018, the Deputy Minister of Defense confirmed that the armed Uran-9 SAM, developed by the 766 Production and Technological Equipment Department, was deployed to Syria for testing. From the report of the Ministry of Defense it follows that these combat tests of the complex revealed shortcomings in its control, mobility, firepower, intelligence and observation functions.
Tower military multifunctional robot Uran-9. Its armament is equivalent to the armament of the BMP: 30-mm cannon, launchers of unguided and anti-tank guided missiles
Uranium-9 from Russia
The Uran-9 combat multifunctional robotic complex is armed with an 30-mm 2А72 automatic cannon, an 9,62-mm PKT / PTKM machine gun coupled to it and four Attack 9М120-1 machine gun. As an option, the Uglyn-9 anti-aircraft complex “Igla” or the Kornet-M ATGM can be installed. At the 2018 Army exhibition, this robot was presented in an updated version, equipped with two six-barrel Shmel-M installations for firing Shmel-PRO missiles with thermobaric (PRO-A) or incendiary (PRO-3) warheads. Robot Uranus-9 Able to move off-road at a speed of 10 km / h, the maximum speed is 25 km / h, it can be controlled via radio from a mobile control station located less than three kilometers away. This machine has quite impressive dimensions: the length of the 5,1 meter, the width of the 2,53 meter, the height of the 2,5 meter and the mass of the order of 10 tons, which is explained by the installation of the base armor providing protection against small fire weapons. In turn, the Kalashnikov Concern has developed a combat automated system BAS-01G BM “Companion”, whose weapon systems can include 12,7-mm and 7,62-mm machine gun, 30-mm grenade launcher AG-17А and new 40-mm automatic grenade launcher. Also, BAS provides for the possibility of installing eight anti-tank Cornet-EM missiles.
The 7-ton BAS “Companion” has lighter weapons than the Uran-9. Its main weapon is the 12,7-mm machine gun
THeMIS from Estonia
In the field of armed robots, it is necessary to note the platform that has been used by numerous companies to develop unmanned armed systems. This platform THeMIS, designed and manufactured by the Estonian company Milrem Robotics. THeMIS (Tracked Hybrid Modular Infantry System) means "hybrid modular tracked infantry system". This open architecture platform, weighing 1450 kg, is equipped with a diesel engine and an electric generator; in hybrid mode, it can operate 8-10 hours, whereas in fully electric mode, the operating time varies from 0,5 to 1,5 hours. In a typical configuration, one of the modules contains batteries and another generator, that is, customers can choose between all-electric and hybrid solutions. Milrem has evaluated various types of batteries and is ready to install fuel cells at the customer's request. THeMIS can reach speeds of 14 km / h and overcome slopes up to 60% and side slopes up to 30%. The device has a length of 2,4 meter, width of 2,15 meter and height of 1,1 meter, the size of the area for the target load between the two side modules is 2,05xXNNUMX meter, it can take 1,03 kg load.
TheMIS of Milrem opens fire from the FN Herstal M12,7R 3 machine gun installed in the deFNder Medium weapon module
When used as a transport system, the cargo platform THeMIS is equipped with a cage height 53 cm with an internal volume 1,12 м3. Milrem devices are complemented by a variety of remote control options and autonomous capabilities. Among them, navigation through intermediate points, zonal navigation used to neutralize improvised explosive devices and search and rescue tasks, “follow the lead”, “driver assistance” and “time” modes. In order to optimize the path of the DMM, intelligent route planning is also available with functions to check the sectors of vision, radio range and terrain type.
Also, more advanced modes are considered for this robot, for example, improved detection and circumvention of obstacles due to learning neural networks in a virtual learning environment, voice and hand commands to reduce operator load in the field and augmented reality to ensure complete operator immersion. turns out to be in the center of the action with all the necessary projected information. “Autonomic capabilities today are not at the level that would allow to solve all possible scenarios that our DUM might encounter, so our autonomous kit is always adapted to the needs of customers,” said Mart Noorma from Milrem Robotics, explaining that it’s difficult to evaluate the current status of various developments, based on the overall level of technological readiness, since a perfect solution for one scenario can be quite useless for another. Milrem Robotics is able to develop solutions for the customer, which include the components of the above capabilities and technologies.
The Estonian company Milrem developed the robot THeMIS - a caterpillar DUM with hybrid propulsion, which has become a reference platform for many Western manufacturers of weapons
The Estonian company provides customers with another useful tool, called DIBS (Digital Infantry Battlefield Solution). “It was developed jointly with military experts to demonstrate the potential of ground mobile robots in combat operations, both as individual platforms and as part of a group, as well as when people and robots work together,” Noorma added. DIBS works as a kind of combat laboratory, which allows you to understand how to deploy DUMs in order to optimally use the fleet of such devices, as well as to work out the fulfillment of the task.
The Estonian company has provided its platform to several partners who have installed their systems on it. Singapore Technologies Engineering signed an agreement in 2016 on using THeMIS as the basis for several possible products and installed its Adder remotely controlled weapon module (DUMV) armed with an 12,7-mm machine gun or an 40-mm automatic grenade launcher. At IDEX 2017, Milrem and IGG Aselsan presented THeMIS, equipped with a SARP DUMA developed by Turkish Aselsan. whereas a month later, an Estonian company announced a collaboration with Kongsberg and QinetiQ North America on installing the Protector module on the DMM, in this case QNA will provide a management system.
The French company Nexter installed its ARX-20 module, equipped with an 20-mm 20М61 cannon, on the THUMIS® DUM. The system under the index ORTIO-X20 was shown at the Eurosatory 2018 exhibition.
Heavy weapons for THeMIS
At Eurosatory 2018, Nexter showed ORTIO-X20, a combination of the THeMIS robot with its remote-controlled armament module ARX-20 with an 20-mm gun. This was the first attempt to install medium-caliber weapons on this DUM. The ARX-20 is armed with an 20М621 cannon for an 20x102 mm projectile and an optional twin 7,62-mm machine gun FN MAG 58. At the same exhibition you could see THeMIS with the FN Herstal deFNder Medium module, armed with an 12,7-mm machine gun M3R. At the exhibition, Milrem Robotics and MBDA announced an agreement on the development of a DUM variant armed with fifth generation MMP anti-tank missiles. They will be installed in the MBDA IMPACT (Integrated MMP Precision Attack Combat Turret) turret, which is equipped with day / night sensors, two missiles ready for launch, and an optional 7,62-mm machine gun.
Since DUM THeMIS is heavy enough, it is well suited for installing weapons. However, it can be adapted for other tasks, its large carrying capacity allows it to be converted into an intelligence or transport system.
At the Eurosatory 2018 exhibition, MBDA announced an agreement with Milrem to install its IMPACT HMAS, armed with fifth generation MMR anti-tank missiles, on the THeMIS robotic platform.
Mission Master from Canada
The Canadian branch of the German company Rheinmetall developed a robotic platform some time ago, which was presented in serial configuration at the Eurosatory exhibition. The phrase “final configuration” is not appropriate here, since a system of this type is evolutionary by definition. The first option, called the Mission Master, in the cargo configuration allows not only to perform the tasks of supply, but also prepared for the tasks of evacuating the wounded and injured.
Presented at the Eurosatory 2018 exhibition in the supply version, the RHM Mission Mission Master of Rheinmetall Canada can now be equipped with various modules, including a COLM
Mission Master is based on the commercial platform Avenger 8x8 developed by the Canadian company Argo. It was originally equipped with a diesel engine, but Rheinmetall Canada replaced it with an electric motor and a set of lithium-ion batteries, which provide approximately 8 hours of continuous operation. To make DUM as autonomous as possible was the first goal of the company and for this most of the “brains” of the system are installed on board; however, remote control is also possible. On the left, behind the Mission Master platform, there is a touch screen that can be removed and controlled at a distance of up to 100 meters. “The front sensor package includes the 3D laser locator and camera, and the rear sensor unit includes the camera and laser locator, the latter two-coordinate,” explained Alain Trembley from Rheinmetall Canada, adding that “two optional side cameras can be installed if the customer wishes overview". In order to increase the viewing distance and improve the recognition quality, a radar station can also be installed on the vehicle.
All these subsystems can be easily installed thanks to the CAN protocol bus, which provides automatic configuration of the connected components. Mission Master Robot with its two satellite receivers and inertial navigation platform is able to use any existing satellite constellation. An inertial navigation system plus a digital map of the work area loaded into the navigation system allows the Mission Master to move around the area for a while in the absence of a satellite signal. Semi-autonomous functions, for example, “follow me”, allow working with several devices.
Rheinmetall Canada worked not only on stand-alone modules, but also on the layout of the device so that its Mission Master maximally meets the soldier’s needs in the field
Rheinmetall Canada not only worked on stand-alone modules, but also tried to adapt the platform to military tasks. “We’ve added along the sides of the container machine 16 containers compatible with NATO ammunition boxes, which can also be used for other purposes. Tubular racks installed along the sides allow you to fold backpacks on them, and when lowered they become seats that can accommodate, for example, sedentary wounded; only stretchers can be installed on the platform, since the device is 2,95 meter in length, ”said Trembley. With a dead weight of less than 800 kg, the platform can take a weight of almost 600 kg, the maximum carrying capacity in amphibious operations is 400 kg.
The on-board DUMM Mission Master touch screen can be removed and used for remote control of the device
In addition to the DUM cargo configuration, the Mission Master can be equipped for other types of tasks; at an exhibition in Paris, for example, the car was shown with a DUMV armed with an 12,7-mm machine gun. The company Rheinmetall Canada, a member of the Rheinmetall group, is engaged in the development and production of a MASM, but thanks to the open architecture of the system any other combat module can be installed. Considering the mass category of the Mission Master, Rheinmetall Canada intends to test it with the 20-mm gun at the start of the 2019 year. Another target load may be installed on the machine, for example, reconnaissance, repeater, reconnaissance, or EW modules. For modules with high power consumption, an auxiliary power unit can be installed; ultimately, it can be used to increase the operating time of the platform. The APU of this type, along with fuel, weighs about 10 percent of the Mission Master's carrying capacity in amphibious operations.
Photos of an early version of Robot's Probot; Israel is one of the leaders in the field of unmanned systems, both ground and air
Probot from Israel and ALMRS from Britain
Limited human resources have always forced Israel to think outside the box, thanks to which this country has been a leader in the use of UAVs for several decades. As for unmanned ground systems, ground robots have been patrolling the borders of Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv for several years. Roboteam has developed an enhanced version of the Probot 2 configuration 4x4 weighing 410 kg, which, after “re-fitting” into tracks, can carry cargo weighing 700 kg. which is much more than its own mass. The hours of 8 hours were increased by adding a generator that recharges batteries while driving, and also extends the monitoring mode to 72 hours - this is the requirement of the SMET program of the US Army, under which Probot passed the first selection. Roboteam DUM can develop 9,6 km / h speed and work on intermediate GPS coordinates or be equipped with a “follow me” kit.
Many European armies are looking at the DMM with interest in order to reduce the risks and the load on the soldiers; most are currently interested in transportation tasks. Here you can call the British program ALMRS (Autonomous Last Mile Resupply System - autonomous supply system on the last mile), in which the calculation is done not only on ground vehicles. The 2017 document, released in June, addresses three main technological areas: unmanned air and land cargo platforms, technologies and systems that allow these cargo platforms to operate autonomously, and finally, self-forecasting, planning, tracking and optimizing the supply of military users. In July, five teams were selected for 2018, marking the beginning of the one-year 2 Phase, in which the Army Warfighting Experiment was conducted in November of the same year.
Safran e-Rider dum during 2017 demonstration in October. The company leads a team that will provide three different prototypes for evaluation.
French and Italian efforts
The French Office of Land Armaments has launched the FURIOUS program (Future systemes Robotiques Innovants en tant qu'OUtilS au profit du combattant embarque et debarque - promising innovative robotic systems for the army). Its goal is to deploy three demo units of different sizes, which will operate as part of infantry squads at the CENZUB urban combat training center in Sisson. Safran Electronics & Defense and Effidence, a logistics robotics company, were tasked with developing these prototypes. In October 2017, Safran showed off the e-Rider, a hybrid diesel-electric vehicle, which was equipped with a generator, which increased the range to 200-300 km. It demonstrated its autonomous capabilities by moving fully autonomously along a pre-planned route, avoiding obstacles and returning to the starting position; the follow me mode was also shown. Safran has integrated the sensors and control system into a Technical Studio 4x4 manned vehicle capable of carrying up to four passengers or one stretcher. Building on this experience, Safran will work with Effidence to develop the three demo samples required.
At the beginning of 2010, the Italian army was ready to deploy an armed robot weighing 100 kg in Afghanistan, its main task was to ensure the security of the military base. The TRP-2 FOB, developed by Oto Melara (currently Leonardo), could reach speeds of 15 km / h, the duration of work was 4 hours, it was armed with an 5,56-mm machine gun FN Minimi and a 40-mm single-shot grenade launcher. Purchased on an urgent request, the system has not been deployed because of the difficulties with its certification. The Italian Arms Directorate is currently completing the certification process, which will alleviate the problems of handling armed SMMs.
The Italian company Ingegneria Dei Sistemi offers the army an easy platform Bulldog, which can be used to solve tactical and logistic tasks
Ingegneria dei Sistemi (IDS) offers the Bulldog robotic platform. The modular DMM presented at the Eurosatory exhibition can be used for different tasks: transporting the wounded, neutralizing IEDs, reconnaissance and surveillance, or fire support. Each wheel rotates a high-power brushless electric motor, which results in excellent vehicle acceleration and a maximum speed of 40 km / h. The Bulldog has a 0,88 meter length, a 0,85 meter width, an 100 kg own weight and a 150 kg carrying capacity. The latter can be significantly increased, since electric motors allow the Bulldog to tow a trailer with 300 kg, that is, the total carrying capacity is sufficient for the tasks of supplying and evacuating the wounded. The system can be quickly reconfigured from wheels to tracks. An antenna is mounted on the tubular frame, ensuring maximum control radius, and if necessary, a backpack can be mounted on the frame. Lithium polymer batteries are installed in two interchangeable drawers, the standard operating time is 12 hours. Bulldog can be controlled by cable, remotely via radio, can work in semi-autonomous mode via voice commands, as well as in automatic mode; A stand-alone module is available to reduce the load on the operator, which allows him to concentrate on the payload. The control interface is a hardened tablet with a 7-inch touchscreen and a joystick. DUM is equipped with two sets of day / night sensors, installed in front and behind. DUM Bulldog is currently being evaluated in an infantry school of the Italian army; IDS also offers it to foreign customers.
Turkish DUM UKAP, developed by Katmerciler, is equipped with Aselsan SARP DUMV; Photos from the DSA show in Kuala Lumpur, held in April 2018
Turkish and Ukrainian achievements
The Turkish company Katmerciler has developed a heavy DUM UKAP with its own tonnage of 1,1 and a tonnage of useful tonnage of 2; An electrically driven machine can reach speeds of 25 km / h, the operating time is one hour from batteries and five hours from an onboard generator. UKAP is offered with a DUM In AARSAN SARP, which can accept an 12,7-mm machine gun or an 40-mm automatic grenade launcher. The DUMV is also equipped with an automatic tracking system that allows you to fire in motion.
Ukraine has chosen a wheeled solution and offers two DUM, Phantom and 2 Phantom. The first one is a hybrid platform 6x6 with a combat weight of one ton and a payload of 350 kg, it is capable of developing a speed of 38 km / h. DUM 3 meter length and 1.6 meter width is offered in different versions: sanitary and rescue, ammunition delivery, reconnaissance and fire support. The armed version is equipped with a DUMM with a 12,7-mm machine gun and four Barrier ATGMs with a range of 5 km. The Phantom was reportedly tested at the end of 2017 of the year, then the certification process began. A further development of this platform was the DUM 2 Phantom 4,2 meter long, 2,1 ton combat weight and 1,2 ton carrying capacity, which allows you to install more powerful heavy weapons.
The Ukrainian DUM Phantom is armed with an 12,7-mm machine gun and four anti-tank missiles. DUM Phantom 2 (photo below) in the configuration 8х8 has a significantly greater load capacity
Many other systems have been developed, the description of which was not included in the article, although photographs of some of them are given, for example:
DUM Little Milosh of the Yugoslavian company Yugoimport weighs about 300 kg and has a load capacity of 400 kg. The range is 2 km, and the duration of 4 hours, the device is armed with a 7,62-mm machine gun and a six-shot 40-mm grenade launcher
American approach
The US Army undoubtedly shows interest in unmanned ground vehicles in order to increase combat effectiveness and reduce risks. In the future, various systems can be assigned to the combat teams of three types, heavy medium and light.
For several years now, the army has been implementing the so-called Wingman Joint Capability Technology Demonstration program (JCTD - a research program for assessing technological capabilities), in which the HMMWV-based control and monitoring machine, equipped with the Long Range Advanced Scout Surveillance System - Advanced long range reconnaissance system). The second robotic machine of the complex, also equipped with a HMMWV base, is equipped with a tripod, on which the Picatinny LRWS module, armed with an M240В machine gun, is installed, as an option, a multi-barreled Gatling MXXUMX machine gun can be installed. The machine is controlled by a set of sensors and electronics Robotic Technology Kernel. In the middle of 134, the US Army decided to expand this program to other platforms, including the M2018 armored personnel carrier with simultaneous installation of a CROWS DUMV armed with an 113-mm machine gun. The ultimate goal is to verify the possibility of certifying the system at the Scout Gunnery Table VI test site, where the crews of combat vehicles are certified.
Robotic Wingman maneuvers in semi-autonomous mode at the Scout Gunnery Table VI test site in Fort Benning
With regard to logistics support, more progress is seen here. The development of the SMET (Squad-Multipurpose Equipment Transport) program for a multipurpose platform for transporting equipment at the squad level is ongoing, but the current goal is to develop a land-based robotic complex capable of performing logistic tasks in order to reduce physical stress on light dismounted forces. The US Army in December 2017 selected four participants for the SMET project: Applied Research Associates (ARA) and Polaris Defense (Team Polaris); General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS); HDT Global; and Howe & Howe Technologies.
The initial combat principles and SMET requirements applied to a vehicle that could accompany soldiers marching at 3 km / h speed up to 72 hours without refueling over a distance of more than 97 km. Ultimately, the device will have to work in three modes: autonomous, semi-autonomous and remote control.
The platform must carry a load of 454 kg and generate 3 kW parked and 1 kW in motion. Transporting an 454 kg will reduce the load on each soldier in the squad by 45 kg. By reducing the load, the platform will allow Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) infantry brigade groups to travel long distances, while generating electricity from this platform will allow equipment and batteries to be charged on the go. The Marine Corps also has similar needs, but it’s unclear whom to choose.
The army also wants to reduce the burden on its supply services, for which Oshkosh Defense issued a contract worth 49 million dollars for the integration of autonomous technologies into its multi-functional transport platforms Palletized Load System. This program, called Expedient Leader Follower, will allow unmanned trucks to become part of transport convoys.
On the materials of the sites:
www.nationaldefensemagazine.org
www.rheinmetall.com
766uptk.ru
kalashnikov.com
milremrobotics.com
www.nexter-group.fr
www.robo-team.com
www.janes.com
www.gov.uk
www.defense.gouv.fr
www.idscorporation.com
www.katmerciler.com.tr
www.army-technology.com
www.oshkosh.com
sputniknews.com
www.defense-aerospace.com
pinterest.com
bastion-karpenko.ru
Uranium-9 at the stand of the Kalashnikov Concern at the exhibition Army 2018; This remote-controlled vehicle has passed military tests in Syria.
The operating experience of remotely controlled machines (DMM) has influenced the change of some priorities aimed at reducing the logistic load and increasing the flexibility of application. The military is currently looking for systems that can use a common universal controller, have a single chassis configuration that allows you to take a different target load, that is, platforms with an increased level of modularity.
The choice of DUMs on the market is extremely diverse, ranging from nanomachines to heavy multi-ton systems. In the same article, the latter will be considered, especially those equipped with one or another weapon system. Armed Robots are the subject of fierce discussions related to ethical, legal issues, etc., although some countries have already begun to deploy them, mainly for evaluation and development of the concept of combat use. For example, in May 2018, the Deputy Minister of Defense confirmed that the armed Uran-9 SAM, developed by the 766 Production and Technological Equipment Department, was deployed to Syria for testing. From the report of the Ministry of Defense it follows that these combat tests of the complex revealed shortcomings in its control, mobility, firepower, intelligence and observation functions.
Tower military multifunctional robot Uran-9. Its armament is equivalent to the armament of the BMP: 30-mm cannon, launchers of unguided and anti-tank guided missiles
Uranium-9 from Russia
The Uran-9 combat multifunctional robotic complex is armed with an 30-mm 2А72 automatic cannon, an 9,62-mm PKT / PTKM machine gun coupled to it and four Attack 9М120-1 machine gun. As an option, the Uglyn-9 anti-aircraft complex “Igla” or the Kornet-M ATGM can be installed. At the 2018 Army exhibition, this robot was presented in an updated version, equipped with two six-barrel Shmel-M installations for firing Shmel-PRO missiles with thermobaric (PRO-A) or incendiary (PRO-3) warheads. Robot Uranus-9 Able to move off-road at a speed of 10 km / h, the maximum speed is 25 km / h, it can be controlled via radio from a mobile control station located less than three kilometers away. This machine has quite impressive dimensions: the length of the 5,1 meter, the width of the 2,53 meter, the height of the 2,5 meter and the mass of the order of 10 tons, which is explained by the installation of the base armor providing protection against small fire weapons. In turn, the Kalashnikov Concern has developed a combat automated system BAS-01G BM “Companion”, whose weapon systems can include 12,7-mm and 7,62-mm machine gun, 30-mm grenade launcher AG-17А and new 40-mm automatic grenade launcher. Also, BAS provides for the possibility of installing eight anti-tank Cornet-EM missiles.
The 7-ton BAS “Companion” has lighter weapons than the Uran-9. Its main weapon is the 12,7-mm machine gun
THeMIS from Estonia
In the field of armed robots, it is necessary to note the platform that has been used by numerous companies to develop unmanned armed systems. This platform THeMIS, designed and manufactured by the Estonian company Milrem Robotics. THeMIS (Tracked Hybrid Modular Infantry System) means "hybrid modular tracked infantry system". This open architecture platform, weighing 1450 kg, is equipped with a diesel engine and an electric generator; in hybrid mode, it can operate 8-10 hours, whereas in fully electric mode, the operating time varies from 0,5 to 1,5 hours. In a typical configuration, one of the modules contains batteries and another generator, that is, customers can choose between all-electric and hybrid solutions. Milrem has evaluated various types of batteries and is ready to install fuel cells at the customer's request. THeMIS can reach speeds of 14 km / h and overcome slopes up to 60% and side slopes up to 30%. The device has a length of 2,4 meter, width of 2,15 meter and height of 1,1 meter, the size of the area for the target load between the two side modules is 2,05xXNNUMX meter, it can take 1,03 kg load.
TheMIS of Milrem opens fire from the FN Herstal M12,7R 3 machine gun installed in the deFNder Medium weapon module
When used as a transport system, the cargo platform THeMIS is equipped with a cage height 53 cm with an internal volume 1,12 м3. Milrem devices are complemented by a variety of remote control options and autonomous capabilities. Among them, navigation through intermediate points, zonal navigation used to neutralize improvised explosive devices and search and rescue tasks, “follow the lead”, “driver assistance” and “time” modes. In order to optimize the path of the DMM, intelligent route planning is also available with functions to check the sectors of vision, radio range and terrain type.
Also, more advanced modes are considered for this robot, for example, improved detection and circumvention of obstacles due to learning neural networks in a virtual learning environment, voice and hand commands to reduce operator load in the field and augmented reality to ensure complete operator immersion. turns out to be in the center of the action with all the necessary projected information. “Autonomic capabilities today are not at the level that would allow to solve all possible scenarios that our DUM might encounter, so our autonomous kit is always adapted to the needs of customers,” said Mart Noorma from Milrem Robotics, explaining that it’s difficult to evaluate the current status of various developments, based on the overall level of technological readiness, since a perfect solution for one scenario can be quite useless for another. Milrem Robotics is able to develop solutions for the customer, which include the components of the above capabilities and technologies.
The Estonian company Milrem developed the robot THeMIS - a caterpillar DUM with hybrid propulsion, which has become a reference platform for many Western manufacturers of weapons
The Estonian company provides customers with another useful tool, called DIBS (Digital Infantry Battlefield Solution). “It was developed jointly with military experts to demonstrate the potential of ground mobile robots in combat operations, both as individual platforms and as part of a group, as well as when people and robots work together,” Noorma added. DIBS works as a kind of combat laboratory, which allows you to understand how to deploy DUMs in order to optimally use the fleet of such devices, as well as to work out the fulfillment of the task.
The Estonian company has provided its platform to several partners who have installed their systems on it. Singapore Technologies Engineering signed an agreement in 2016 on using THeMIS as the basis for several possible products and installed its Adder remotely controlled weapon module (DUMV) armed with an 12,7-mm machine gun or an 40-mm automatic grenade launcher. At IDEX 2017, Milrem and IGG Aselsan presented THeMIS, equipped with a SARP DUMA developed by Turkish Aselsan. whereas a month later, an Estonian company announced a collaboration with Kongsberg and QinetiQ North America on installing the Protector module on the DMM, in this case QNA will provide a management system.
The French company Nexter installed its ARX-20 module, equipped with an 20-mm 20М61 cannon, on the THUMIS® DUM. The system under the index ORTIO-X20 was shown at the Eurosatory 2018 exhibition.
Heavy weapons for THeMIS
At Eurosatory 2018, Nexter showed ORTIO-X20, a combination of the THeMIS robot with its remote-controlled armament module ARX-20 with an 20-mm gun. This was the first attempt to install medium-caliber weapons on this DUM. The ARX-20 is armed with an 20М621 cannon for an 20x102 mm projectile and an optional twin 7,62-mm machine gun FN MAG 58. At the same exhibition you could see THeMIS with the FN Herstal deFNder Medium module, armed with an 12,7-mm machine gun M3R. At the exhibition, Milrem Robotics and MBDA announced an agreement on the development of a DUM variant armed with fifth generation MMP anti-tank missiles. They will be installed in the MBDA IMPACT (Integrated MMP Precision Attack Combat Turret) turret, which is equipped with day / night sensors, two missiles ready for launch, and an optional 7,62-mm machine gun.
Since DUM THeMIS is heavy enough, it is well suited for installing weapons. However, it can be adapted for other tasks, its large carrying capacity allows it to be converted into an intelligence or transport system.
At the Eurosatory 2018 exhibition, MBDA announced an agreement with Milrem to install its IMPACT HMAS, armed with fifth generation MMR anti-tank missiles, on the THeMIS robotic platform.
Mission Master from Canada
The Canadian branch of the German company Rheinmetall developed a robotic platform some time ago, which was presented in serial configuration at the Eurosatory exhibition. The phrase “final configuration” is not appropriate here, since a system of this type is evolutionary by definition. The first option, called the Mission Master, in the cargo configuration allows not only to perform the tasks of supply, but also prepared for the tasks of evacuating the wounded and injured.
Presented at the Eurosatory 2018 exhibition in the supply version, the RHM Mission Mission Master of Rheinmetall Canada can now be equipped with various modules, including a COLM
Mission Master is based on the commercial platform Avenger 8x8 developed by the Canadian company Argo. It was originally equipped with a diesel engine, but Rheinmetall Canada replaced it with an electric motor and a set of lithium-ion batteries, which provide approximately 8 hours of continuous operation. To make DUM as autonomous as possible was the first goal of the company and for this most of the “brains” of the system are installed on board; however, remote control is also possible. On the left, behind the Mission Master platform, there is a touch screen that can be removed and controlled at a distance of up to 100 meters. “The front sensor package includes the 3D laser locator and camera, and the rear sensor unit includes the camera and laser locator, the latter two-coordinate,” explained Alain Trembley from Rheinmetall Canada, adding that “two optional side cameras can be installed if the customer wishes overview". In order to increase the viewing distance and improve the recognition quality, a radar station can also be installed on the vehicle.
All these subsystems can be easily installed thanks to the CAN protocol bus, which provides automatic configuration of the connected components. Mission Master Robot with its two satellite receivers and inertial navigation platform is able to use any existing satellite constellation. An inertial navigation system plus a digital map of the work area loaded into the navigation system allows the Mission Master to move around the area for a while in the absence of a satellite signal. Semi-autonomous functions, for example, “follow me”, allow working with several devices.
Rheinmetall Canada worked not only on stand-alone modules, but also on the layout of the device so that its Mission Master maximally meets the soldier’s needs in the field
Rheinmetall Canada not only worked on stand-alone modules, but also tried to adapt the platform to military tasks. “We’ve added along the sides of the container machine 16 containers compatible with NATO ammunition boxes, which can also be used for other purposes. Tubular racks installed along the sides allow you to fold backpacks on them, and when lowered they become seats that can accommodate, for example, sedentary wounded; only stretchers can be installed on the platform, since the device is 2,95 meter in length, ”said Trembley. With a dead weight of less than 800 kg, the platform can take a weight of almost 600 kg, the maximum carrying capacity in amphibious operations is 400 kg.
The on-board DUMM Mission Master touch screen can be removed and used for remote control of the device
In addition to the DUM cargo configuration, the Mission Master can be equipped for other types of tasks; at an exhibition in Paris, for example, the car was shown with a DUMV armed with an 12,7-mm machine gun. The company Rheinmetall Canada, a member of the Rheinmetall group, is engaged in the development and production of a MASM, but thanks to the open architecture of the system any other combat module can be installed. Considering the mass category of the Mission Master, Rheinmetall Canada intends to test it with the 20-mm gun at the start of the 2019 year. Another target load may be installed on the machine, for example, reconnaissance, repeater, reconnaissance, or EW modules. For modules with high power consumption, an auxiliary power unit can be installed; ultimately, it can be used to increase the operating time of the platform. The APU of this type, along with fuel, weighs about 10 percent of the Mission Master's carrying capacity in amphibious operations.
Photos of an early version of Robot's Probot; Israel is one of the leaders in the field of unmanned systems, both ground and air
Probot from Israel and ALMRS from Britain
Limited human resources have always forced Israel to think outside the box, thanks to which this country has been a leader in the use of UAVs for several decades. As for unmanned ground systems, ground robots have been patrolling the borders of Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv for several years. Roboteam has developed an enhanced version of the Probot 2 configuration 4x4 weighing 410 kg, which, after “re-fitting” into tracks, can carry cargo weighing 700 kg. which is much more than its own mass. The hours of 8 hours were increased by adding a generator that recharges batteries while driving, and also extends the monitoring mode to 72 hours - this is the requirement of the SMET program of the US Army, under which Probot passed the first selection. Roboteam DUM can develop 9,6 km / h speed and work on intermediate GPS coordinates or be equipped with a “follow me” kit.
Many European armies are looking at the DMM with interest in order to reduce the risks and the load on the soldiers; most are currently interested in transportation tasks. Here you can call the British program ALMRS (Autonomous Last Mile Resupply System - autonomous supply system on the last mile), in which the calculation is done not only on ground vehicles. The 2017 document, released in June, addresses three main technological areas: unmanned air and land cargo platforms, technologies and systems that allow these cargo platforms to operate autonomously, and finally, self-forecasting, planning, tracking and optimizing the supply of military users. In July, five teams were selected for 2018, marking the beginning of the one-year 2 Phase, in which the Army Warfighting Experiment was conducted in November of the same year.
Safran e-Rider dum during 2017 demonstration in October. The company leads a team that will provide three different prototypes for evaluation.
French and Italian efforts
The French Office of Land Armaments has launched the FURIOUS program (Future systemes Robotiques Innovants en tant qu'OUtilS au profit du combattant embarque et debarque - promising innovative robotic systems for the army). Its goal is to deploy three demo units of different sizes, which will operate as part of infantry squads at the CENZUB urban combat training center in Sisson. Safran Electronics & Defense and Effidence, a logistics robotics company, were tasked with developing these prototypes. In October 2017, Safran showed off the e-Rider, a hybrid diesel-electric vehicle, which was equipped with a generator, which increased the range to 200-300 km. It demonstrated its autonomous capabilities by moving fully autonomously along a pre-planned route, avoiding obstacles and returning to the starting position; the follow me mode was also shown. Safran has integrated the sensors and control system into a Technical Studio 4x4 manned vehicle capable of carrying up to four passengers or one stretcher. Building on this experience, Safran will work with Effidence to develop the three demo samples required.
At the beginning of 2010, the Italian army was ready to deploy an armed robot weighing 100 kg in Afghanistan, its main task was to ensure the security of the military base. The TRP-2 FOB, developed by Oto Melara (currently Leonardo), could reach speeds of 15 km / h, the duration of work was 4 hours, it was armed with an 5,56-mm machine gun FN Minimi and a 40-mm single-shot grenade launcher. Purchased on an urgent request, the system has not been deployed because of the difficulties with its certification. The Italian Arms Directorate is currently completing the certification process, which will alleviate the problems of handling armed SMMs.
The Italian company Ingegneria Dei Sistemi offers the army an easy platform Bulldog, which can be used to solve tactical and logistic tasks
Ingegneria dei Sistemi (IDS) offers the Bulldog robotic platform. The modular DMM presented at the Eurosatory exhibition can be used for different tasks: transporting the wounded, neutralizing IEDs, reconnaissance and surveillance, or fire support. Each wheel rotates a high-power brushless electric motor, which results in excellent vehicle acceleration and a maximum speed of 40 km / h. The Bulldog has a 0,88 meter length, a 0,85 meter width, an 100 kg own weight and a 150 kg carrying capacity. The latter can be significantly increased, since electric motors allow the Bulldog to tow a trailer with 300 kg, that is, the total carrying capacity is sufficient for the tasks of supplying and evacuating the wounded. The system can be quickly reconfigured from wheels to tracks. An antenna is mounted on the tubular frame, ensuring maximum control radius, and if necessary, a backpack can be mounted on the frame. Lithium polymer batteries are installed in two interchangeable drawers, the standard operating time is 12 hours. Bulldog can be controlled by cable, remotely via radio, can work in semi-autonomous mode via voice commands, as well as in automatic mode; A stand-alone module is available to reduce the load on the operator, which allows him to concentrate on the payload. The control interface is a hardened tablet with a 7-inch touchscreen and a joystick. DUM is equipped with two sets of day / night sensors, installed in front and behind. DUM Bulldog is currently being evaluated in an infantry school of the Italian army; IDS also offers it to foreign customers.
Turkish DUM UKAP, developed by Katmerciler, is equipped with Aselsan SARP DUMV; Photos from the DSA show in Kuala Lumpur, held in April 2018
Turkish and Ukrainian achievements
The Turkish company Katmerciler has developed a heavy DUM UKAP with its own tonnage of 1,1 and a tonnage of useful tonnage of 2; An electrically driven machine can reach speeds of 25 km / h, the operating time is one hour from batteries and five hours from an onboard generator. UKAP is offered with a DUM In AARSAN SARP, which can accept an 12,7-mm machine gun or an 40-mm automatic grenade launcher. The DUMV is also equipped with an automatic tracking system that allows you to fire in motion.
Ukraine has chosen a wheeled solution and offers two DUM, Phantom and 2 Phantom. The first one is a hybrid platform 6x6 with a combat weight of one ton and a payload of 350 kg, it is capable of developing a speed of 38 km / h. DUM 3 meter length and 1.6 meter width is offered in different versions: sanitary and rescue, ammunition delivery, reconnaissance and fire support. The armed version is equipped with a DUMM with a 12,7-mm machine gun and four Barrier ATGMs with a range of 5 km. The Phantom was reportedly tested at the end of 2017 of the year, then the certification process began. A further development of this platform was the DUM 2 Phantom 4,2 meter long, 2,1 ton combat weight and 1,2 ton carrying capacity, which allows you to install more powerful heavy weapons.
The Ukrainian DUM Phantom is armed with an 12,7-mm machine gun and four anti-tank missiles. DUM Phantom 2 (photo below) in the configuration 8х8 has a significantly greater load capacity
Many other systems have been developed, the description of which was not included in the article, although photographs of some of them are given, for example:
DUM Little Milosh of the Yugoslavian company Yugoimport weighs about 300 kg and has a load capacity of 400 kg. The range is 2 km, and the duration of 4 hours, the device is armed with a 7,62-mm machine gun and a six-shot 40-mm grenade launcher
American approach
The US Army undoubtedly shows interest in unmanned ground vehicles in order to increase combat effectiveness and reduce risks. In the future, various systems can be assigned to the combat teams of three types, heavy medium and light.
For several years now, the army has been implementing the so-called Wingman Joint Capability Technology Demonstration program (JCTD - a research program for assessing technological capabilities), in which the HMMWV-based control and monitoring machine, equipped with the Long Range Advanced Scout Surveillance System - Advanced long range reconnaissance system). The second robotic machine of the complex, also equipped with a HMMWV base, is equipped with a tripod, on which the Picatinny LRWS module, armed with an M240В machine gun, is installed, as an option, a multi-barreled Gatling MXXUMX machine gun can be installed. The machine is controlled by a set of sensors and electronics Robotic Technology Kernel. In the middle of 134, the US Army decided to expand this program to other platforms, including the M2018 armored personnel carrier with simultaneous installation of a CROWS DUMV armed with an 113-mm machine gun. The ultimate goal is to verify the possibility of certifying the system at the Scout Gunnery Table VI test site, where the crews of combat vehicles are certified.
Robotic Wingman maneuvers in semi-autonomous mode at the Scout Gunnery Table VI test site in Fort Benning
With regard to logistics support, more progress is seen here. The development of the SMET (Squad-Multipurpose Equipment Transport) program for a multipurpose platform for transporting equipment at the squad level is ongoing, but the current goal is to develop a land-based robotic complex capable of performing logistic tasks in order to reduce physical stress on light dismounted forces. The US Army in December 2017 selected four participants for the SMET project: Applied Research Associates (ARA) and Polaris Defense (Team Polaris); General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS); HDT Global; and Howe & Howe Technologies.
The initial combat principles and SMET requirements applied to a vehicle that could accompany soldiers marching at 3 km / h speed up to 72 hours without refueling over a distance of more than 97 km. Ultimately, the device will have to work in three modes: autonomous, semi-autonomous and remote control.
The platform must carry a load of 454 kg and generate 3 kW parked and 1 kW in motion. Transporting an 454 kg will reduce the load on each soldier in the squad by 45 kg. By reducing the load, the platform will allow Infantry Brigade Combat Team (IBCT) infantry brigade groups to travel long distances, while generating electricity from this platform will allow equipment and batteries to be charged on the go. The Marine Corps also has similar needs, but it’s unclear whom to choose.
The army also wants to reduce the burden on its supply services, for which Oshkosh Defense issued a contract worth 49 million dollars for the integration of autonomous technologies into its multi-functional transport platforms Palletized Load System. This program, called Expedient Leader Follower, will allow unmanned trucks to become part of transport convoys.
On the materials of the sites:
www.nationaldefensemagazine.org
www.rheinmetall.com
766uptk.ru
kalashnikov.com
milremrobotics.com
www.nexter-group.fr
www.robo-team.com
www.janes.com
www.gov.uk
www.defense.gouv.fr
www.idscorporation.com
www.katmerciler.com.tr
www.army-technology.com
www.oshkosh.com
sputniknews.com
www.defense-aerospace.com
pinterest.com
bastion-karpenko.ru
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