Robotization complex "Prometheus": military robots at any base

RTK MGR-4 with a control system similar to the Prometheus PA

In recent years, a number of land-based robotic systems for military purposes have been created in our country. Some of these products were developed from scratch, while others were made based on existing combat and auxiliary vehicles. In addition, in order to simplify the development of new RTKs, a hardware and software complex for robotization “Prometheus” was created on a ready-made basis. It is already being tested and used in several promising projects.

New development

The Prometheus software and hardware complex (SHC) was developed by the VNII Signal (Kovrov) from the NPO High-Precision Complexes, part of Rostec. Work on this topic began in the recent past and has now gone through a number of first stages and also produced the first results.

The existence of the Prometheus project became known in July 2023. Then the management of Rostec announced the development of a new PAK that would make it possible to rebuild various types of equipment into a robotic complex. The main features of “Prometheus” were given, but all the details were not disclosed.

New information about the Prometheus PAK arrived about a month later, in August. This time, Rostec management spoke about the preparation of the complex for a large cycle of comprehensive tests in a wide range of conditions. Based on the results of such tests, they were going to determine ways for further development of the complex, the possibility of its use, etc.

In the first reports about Prometheus, it was noted that such a PAK could be used on vehicles of different classes and types. With its help it was proposed to re-equip Tanks, armored personnel carriers and infantry fighting vehicles. Literally the next day after news the start of testing announced the existence of another sample of the RTK based on Prometheus.

On the eve of the Army-2023 forum, the High-Precision Complexes holding company presented the promising MGR-4 Shmel humanitarian mine clearance vehicle. It was made on the basis of a serial platform for civilian use, equipped with protection and new working parts, and equipped with the Prometheus PAK to implement remote control.

In the fall, Rostec and High-Precision Complexes showed the process of testing a mine clearance machine equipped with Prometheus. Also, apparently, at that time other types of equipment with promising PAK were also being tested.

On February 6, 2024, the development organizations again reported testing. At the same time, in the news the Prometheus product was designated as a complex for re-equipping infantry fighting vehicles. The main features and advantages of the robotic infantry fighting vehicle were also given. At the same time, the details of the tests and the prospects of the project, as before, were not disclosed.

According to known data

According to High Precision Complexes and Rostec, the goal of the Prometheus project was to create a hardware and software complex for installation on existing machines for the purpose of organizing remote and autonomous control. Previously, some of the details were disclosed, which generally allows us to present the architecture of such a PAK and ways to solve the main design problems.

Like other control systems robots, PAK "Prometheus" consists of two main parts - the operator's console and a set of devices for installation on a remotely controlled vehicle. The Prometheus remote control was apparently previously demonstrated along with the Shmel mine clearance machine. This is a compact, portable device equipped with a screen for displaying information, controls and a two-way radio system.

The second part of the complex, installed on equipment, has not yet been shown. However, it is known that it includes communication and control devices, a set of cameras, as well as actuators. Apparently, a unified set of devices is provided from which one can select certain products that correspond to the characteristics of a particular machine undergoing modernization.

The on-board control system included in the new PAK can operate both according to operator commands and autonomously. The available technical vision and navigation tools allow it to move along a given route or to a selected point, independently assessing the road, avoiding obstacles, etc.

An important feature of Prometheus is the ability to install devices without significant modifications to the equipped machine. The actuators of the complex are installed directly on the machine controls without changing them. As a result, the infantry fighting vehicle or tank receives remote control, but retains the ability to be operated by the crew.

Depending on the exact composition of additional devices, the Prometheus PAK allows you to organize remote control of all systems of the modified platform. First of all, it allows you to drive a car in different modes and under different conditions. Some of these tasks can be performed independently and without operator participation.

In addition, the complex ensures the use of special equipment and weapons installed on a re-equipped platform. In the case of a mine clearance vehicle, this could be a boom with a trawl of one model or another, and an infantry fighting vehicle will use a cannon or missiles.

Promising direction

The potential of robotic technologies in the military sphere has long been beyond doubt. Complexes of this kind, both independently developed and made on the basis of finished products, can solve a wide range of combat and auxiliary tasks. This area naturally attracts the attention of the armies of the world, and along with them, defense industry enterprises are also working on the topic.

Heavy engineering RTK "Prohod-1"

In our country, the topic of military RTK also does not go unnoticed, and several large organizations work in this area. A number of projects have been developed and presented. Several samples have already reached full operation, while others are still at the testing stage. In addition, numerous RTK concepts of various kinds were demonstrated.

The new Prometheus PAK, created by the Signal Research Institute, is of particular interest in the context of the development of military robots. This project does not propose a specific sample of technology, but a unified control system suitable for installation on various platforms. With its help, almost any type of automotive or armored vehicle can be turned into an RTK with the necessary functions.

To date, modifications of the Prometheus have been developed and brought to testing for light engineering equipment and infantry fighting vehicles. It is also reported about the possibility of creating similar kits for armored personnel carriers, main battle tanks, engineering vehicles, etc. Which of these concepts will be implemented, and in what order new projects will be developed, now depends on the customer, represented by the Ministry of Defense.

One way or another, the defense industry can now offer the army a fairly wide range of robotic systems for various purposes, both already existing and those currently being developed. The Ministry of Defense, in turn, gets the opportunity to select the most successful developments that correspond to its views and plans.

According to reports in recent months, the Prometheus PAK is already being tested as part of new RTKs. Completion of this stage will show all the real capabilities of the new hardware and software complex and will actually open the way for it to the troops. Whether Prometheus will live up to expectations will become clear in the near future.

Comments

[Vladimir_2U]

This is a popular topic! Minefield breaking vehicles can and should be made from old tanks, even the turret can be left in place, although it would be advisable to add additional armor and heavy roller trawls! Just the absence of a BC will greatly add to survivability.

[Netl]

Add. armor against cumulative does not add much. Especially if the drones come from above and from behind.
But it’s a pity for a serviceable tank for such purposes; it can work quite successfully as an assault self-propelled gun from closed positions. Here it’s better to use a broken-down motorcycle or a barely alive infantry fighting vehicle (armored personnel carrier) with a trawl.

But the main problem with such systems is communication noise immunity. Which is usually no higher than that of a regular drone's PDF. But it costs a penny; any equipment with an installed remote system is very expensive. And it will be the same if the enemy has normal electronic warfare in the area.

[Vladimir_2U]

Quote: Netl

But the main problem with such systems is communication noise immunity. Which is usually no higher than that of a regular drone's PDF. But it costs a penny; any equipment with an installed remote system is very expensive. And it will be the same if the enemy has normal electronic warfare in the area.

You can immediately see (not) an attentive reader...

The on-board control system from the new PAK can work both according to operator commands, and autonomously. Available technical vision and navigation tools allow her to move along a given route or to a selected point, independently assessing the road, avoiding obstacles, etc.

Well, not only the enemy can have electronic warfare, wow, right?

Quote: Netl

Here it’s better to use a broken-down motorcycle or a barely alive infantry fighting vehicle (armored personnel carrier) with a trawl.

It’s immediately obvious (there is no) expert...
Neither infantry fighting vehicles nor MTLBs, especially barely alive ones, will be able to pull out a heavy trawl, and even with additional armor, and are not resistant to close explosions of anti-tank mines, unlike a tank.

Quote: Netl

Add. armor against cumulative does not add much. Especially if the drones come from above and from behind.

Well, of course, the men don’t know, and just for fun, they hang the tanks all around with bars and remote control, and install drone FPV suppression systems. Where did you come from?

Quote: Netl

But it’s a pity for a serviceable tank for such purposes; it can work quite successfully as an assault self-propelled gun from closed positions.

Why is there such confidence that an armored unmanned tank, and even without ammunition, has low survivability? Well, the person who writes about the same object in the same sentence “from closed positions” and “assault self-propelled guns” should continue to play tanks, somewhere in Malinovka

[Netl]

allow her to move along a given route or to a selected point, independently

I didn’t write about automatic movement. I haven’t seen any information about how developed this function is. Rather, something completely primitive.
For example, the Yandex unmanned taxi with a similar task has achieved success, but it is not outstanding even in conditions close to ideal, despite the fact that the calculation is performed remotely on servers, and the machine itself has minimal functionality for data transfer.

Well, not only the enemy can have electronic warfare

Maybe. But this does not negate the fact that the enemy will be able to cut off communication with the operator using electronic warfare.

BMP or MTLB, especially barely alive, will not pull out a heavy trawl

Here I partially agree with you. And, of course, it is better to use the BMR-3M, which is based on a tank, but is also better protected from explosions and the trawls are more optimized. But this is from the expensive-rich series. And if we have a high risk of losing the car simply due to loss of connection, then we clearly need something simpler.

the men don’t know, and just for fun they hang the tanks all around with bars and remote control

The guys know. But you wrote about armor.
Or one of those people who changes their shoes on the fly?

the tank, and even without ammunition, has low survivability

I didn’t write about low survivability. The main risk is loss of connection. Although the tank is not immortal. The same barbecues and EPS from the impact core will not help much, and the armor on the roof is not so strong. Tandem cumulatives are also no joy, especially from above.

writes "from closed positions" and "assault self-propelled guns"

Here you expressed yourself unclearly; the image of the “tanks” apparently suppressed everything.
But most likely, you are not aware that assault self-propelled guns did not always fire directly.

[Vladimir_2U]

Quote: Netl

But most likely, you are not aware that assault self-propelled guns did not always fire directly.

Yeah, calling a tank an “assault self-propelled gun” is normal, but the remote sensing and grilles are extra. booking means “changing shoes.” Clearly understood. Where necessary, flight of thought, and where necessary literalism.

Quote: Netl

I didn’t write about automatic movement. I haven’t seen any information about how developed this function is. Rather, something completely primitive.

What could be more primitive than moving forward with a trawl through a minefield. Only what flashed past consciousness in the text.

[Netl]

Yeah, calling a tank an “assault self-propelled gun” is normal

So, this is not in the original
It was about role of that is, performing a number of similar functions. And I have not and will not renege on my words.

What could be more primitive than moving forward with a trawl through a minefield?

If the field is flat and square, you are right.
But usually you shouldn’t forget about ravines, plantings, etc. And we still have to get to the field. If in a manned version, then the risk of catching the FPV from above is high and “darling will not know which tanker was the end.” If in an unmanned vehicle, there is a high risk of catching electronic warfare and standing stupidly waiting for arrival.

And if we drive even more stupidly along the coordinates automatically, we will get stuck in some kind of hole that is not on the map, etc. And dynamically and competently assessing the road situation on the battlefield is a more difficult task than Yandex taxis.

[Vladimir_2U]

Quote: Netl

So, this is not in the original

Why tell something to a character who writes such nonsense....

Quote: Netl

he can

work from closed positions as an assault self-propelled gun

and he says something about “functions”
For a character who doesn’t know that remote sensing has long been called “reactive armor”.

Quote: Netl

And we still have to get to the field. If in a manned version, then the risk of catching the FPV from above is high and “darling will not know which tanker was the end.” If in an unmanned vehicle, there is a high risk of catching electronic warfare and standing stupidly waiting for arrival.

Well, you just... The usual practice is to drive the robot to the place of use by the pilot. “The risk of catching electronic warfare” is not only a moronic formulation, but also on the march, what kind of electronic warfare is from the enemy? The control vehicle will be any closer than the electronic warfare. A tank with reinforced ARMOR and even without ammo will provide the pilot with better protection on the march than just a tank.

Quote: Netl

If the field is flat and square, you are right.

Do not understand that mines are placed in tank-hazardous directions, i.e. on flat areas, this is the level of a tank in the role of an assault self-propelled gun for firing from closed positions.

Quote: Netl

And dynamically and competently assessing the road situation on the battlefield is a more difficult task than Yandex taxis.

You don’t know about directional antennas, but you’re being clever about the situation, the trawl doesn’t care about the situation, it just moves forward, and the hole/funnel is a typical obstacle for AI, even if directional radio communication, and there is also laser communication, is suppressed.
You don’t have to answer, I’m not interested in arguing with you, but I don’t care.

[egsp]

Control commands can also be sent via cable; it is not afraid of electronic warfare. You might say this is an anachronism. But in war, all means are good.

[Netl]

"send via cable, he is not afraid of electronic warfare."
But the cable is afraid of ordinary, for example, mortar fire. A cheap mine will stop expensive equipment. And crawling under fire and connecting broken cables is such a pleasure.
And the operating range of cable systems is not high and greatly depends on the terrain.

[Nikolaevich I]

Quote: Netl

But the cable is afraid of ordinary, for example, mortar fire. A cheap mine will stop expensive equipment.

Come and hit me again! In addition, control can be backed up via a radio channel!

Quote: Netl

The operating range of cable systems is not high and strongly depends on the terrain

There was a time when they were developing missiles and UAVs controlled by fiber-optic communication lines! At the same time, the developers assured that the control range via fiber-optic communication lines was up to 60 km (and some “gave” up to 100 km...) - a reality!
PS On my own behalf, I can offer control via a laser communication channel! Both main and backup! By the way, it is possible to control via a narrowly directed communication channel in the form of a “narrow” millimeter-wave radio beam!

[Netl]

The developers assured that the control range via fiber-optic communication lines is up to 60 km

This means, under some ideal conditions, pulling the thread in a straight line, without jerking, wind, humidity, etc.
And most importantly - all this splendor is for rockets. And for those born to crawl, they will have to drag their tail along the ground. Here the range is orders of magnitude shorter.

I can offer control via a laser communication channel

I thought the same thing about this. Especially if you have a repeater drone, this is an interesting option.
The connection is extremely stable and noise-resistant. Why they won't do it - I don't know.
There may be some difficulties. But rather, it's just a mess.

[alexoff]

How necessary are super space quantum technologies so that if the cable breaks, the tank reverses to the point from which it left?

[Emperor_Alive]

Well, we have taken the path of creating unmanned tanks.
So far with radio control.
This means that the enemy will develop appropriate electronic warfare systems.
Our next evolutionary step is armored vehicles with Artificial Intelligence.
He should be getting ready already!


It was in vain that I was downvoted when I spoke about this on September 17, 2023
in topic:
https://topwar.ru/226037-svet-v-konce-tonnelja-otechestvennye-tankovye-dvigateli.html

[Shamil88]

It would be possible to make it out of old tanks, hang the maximum dz, plus gratings and electronic warfare against drones, 200-300 of these vehicles under the cover of artillery, you can easily make a passage, otherwise I’m already tired of watching after two years of the Northern Military District how our armored vehicles are simply stupidly destroyed by mines

[VasyaRules]

Finally. If you set it up correctly, you can completely switch to unmanned systems. Tanks that do not require a crew, infantry fighting vehicles only for delivering and supporting infantry, self-propelled suicide bombers. The main thing is to start avoiding losses.

[Portos Portosjan]

And the robot Fedor is driving.....