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Milrem Robotics to Deliver over 150 THeMIS UGVs to Ukraine in a Dutch-Led Defence Initiative?

Tuesday, October 7th, 2025

Milrem Robotics—the world’s leading robotics and autonomous systems developer—will deliver over 150 THeMIS unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) to Ukraine as part of a donation funded and coordinated by the Netherlands. A significant portion of these vehicles will be assembled and delivered in collaboration with VDL Defentec.

The donation was initially announced in September, however, the identity of the contributing country was not disclosed. On 6 October, the Dutch Minister of Defence, Ruben Brekelmans, joined Milrem Robotics and VDL for a formal announcement and signing ceremony at VDL’s facility in Born to mark the agreement.

The deliveries will be executed by Milrem Robotics Netherlands in close cooperation with VDL Defentec, which is establishing a dedicated final assembly line at its Born facility. The assembly setup is designed for scalability, enabling further production and deliveries in response to future requirements.

Milrem Robotics will deliver comprehensive training to Ukrainian operators and support staff to ensure efficient deployment and maintenance in the field.

“We are honoured to lead this project in partnership with the Netherlands and VDL. The THeMIS platform has already demonstrated its value under combat conditions, and we believe this contribution will materially strengthen Ukraine’s defence capability,” said Kuldar Väärsi, CEO of Milrem Robotics.

“This initiative highlights the strength of cooperation between partners in Europe’s defence industry and their ability to scale up and contribute directly to international security. Establishing the assembly line in Born supports this donation and creates a foundation for future production and innovation between Milrem Robotics and VDL in the Netherlands,” said Willem van der Leegte, CEO of VDL Groep.

The new units will add to the 15 THeMIS vehicles already in operation in Ukraine, which have been proving their effectiveness on the battlefield since 2022.

THeMIS is a proven and highly adaptable unmanned vehicle platform designed to support dismounted forces, logistics, reconnaissance, and combat support missions. It is currently part of robotics programmes or in service in 19 countries, making it the most widely deployed UGV in its class.

Posted in Contracts, International, Press Release, Robotics | No Comments »

Scout AI Partners with Hendrick Motorsports Technical Solutions on NOMAD – Defense UGV Automated by Fury

Friday, September 26th, 2025

SUNNYVALE, Calif., Sept, 2025 — Scout AI Inc. (“Scout”) and Hendrick Motorsports Technical Solutions (“HMS”) today announced a partnership on NOMAD, HMS’s next-generation unmanned ground vehicle (“UGV”) controlled by Scout’s Fury autonomy system. NOMAD represents Fury’s second UGV form factor and debuts Scout’s fastest foundation model to date, lightweight, low-latency, and purpose-built for compact robotic platforms.

NOMAD also introduces Scout’s second-generation Fury hardware stack, which is more than 90% smaller and significantly more power-efficient than prior versions. The system remains low-signature and passive-sensing, enabling NOMAD to operate autonomously beyond line of sight, follow a human teammate from a safe distance, and integrate a wide range of payloads for light tactical ground missions.

“NOMAD is an incredible platform, fast, adaptable, and designed for the toughest mission environments,” said Colby Adcock, Co-Founder and CEO of Scout AI. “Our partnership with Hendrick Motorsports underscores the extensibility of Fury across multiple form factors. We’re just beginning to unlock its potential across ground, air, sea, and space domains.”

Building on Scout’s mission to deliver next-generation, camera-only autonomy, NOMAD combines Vision-Language-Action (VLA) reasoning with rugged, commercial off-the-shelf hardware. By eliminating costly and fragile sensors and relying on fully learned models, Fury provides human-like judgment in real time while maintaining a low-cost, low-signature footprint.

“At Hendrick Motorsports, our greatest strength has always been our people—the engineers, builders, and innovators who thrive under pressure and push technology to its limits,” said Rhegan Flanagan, Director of Government Programs at HMS. “We are proud to bring that same dedication to supporting the warfighter, whose mission and safety drive everything we do. Partnering with Scout AI allows us to combine world-class vehicle engineering with cutting-edge autonomy to deliver NOMAD—a commercial platform designed to give our servicemembers greater capability, protection, and confidence on the battlefield.”

Posted in AI / ML, Industry, Press Release, Robotics | Comments Off on Scout AI Partners with Hendrick Motorsports Technical Solutions on NOMAD – Defense UGV Automated by Fury

AV Expands Tomahawk Line with Future-Ready Grip TA5 Tactical Controller

Thursday, September 18th, 2025

The Grip TA5 was selected as the Dismounted Common Controller (DCC) as part of the $5.1M U.S. Army RCCTO Human-Machine Integrated Formations (HMIF) rapid prototyping project.

ARLINGTON, Va., [September 12, 2025] — AeroVironment, Inc. (“AV”) (NASDAQ: AVAV), a global leader in all-domain defense technologies, today unveiled its Tomahawk Grip TA5. The Grip TA5 is an 8-inch tactical controller designed to deliver enhanced situational awareness, precision strike capabilities, and seamless scalability across mission sets for today’s modern warfighter.

Built to integrate with the military-grade Samsung Tab Active5 Tactical Edition, the Grip TA5 turns off-the-shelf tablets into mobile command centers. It’s modular architecture and multi-platform compatibility offers operators command and control of multiple robotic assets in real-time – enhancing mission adaptability and response speed. The system enables intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, target acquisition and tracking, situational command and control (C2), and fire control functions–enabling direct operation of lethal payloads, loitering munitions, and direct-fire weapons. At just 2.5 pounds, the compact, rugged controller meets MIL-STD-810 and adds enhanced software security, advanced networking, and hot-swapping flexibility—positioning AV as the permanent control layer regardless of the underlying device model.

“Our ability to deliver effective, next-generation solutions at mission scale and speed positions AV as a top developer and manufacturer in the defense industry,” said Trace Stevenson, President of Autonomous Systems for AV. “The Grip TA5 is more than a controller. It’s a force multiplier that brings speed, interoperability, and future-ready capabilities to the modern warfighter.”

In May, AV announced that its Tomahawk Ground Control Station (GCS) product line was awarded a $5.1 million contract by the U.S. Army Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office (RCCTO) in support of the Human-Machine Integrated Formations (HMIF) rapid prototyping project. The Grip TA5 was officially selected as the Dismounted Common Controller (DCC) to advance human-machine teaming and strengthen battlefield command and control.

AV previously developed and delivered multiple iterations of prototypes based on the previous Samsung Tab Active3 as part of the United States Marine Corps’ Force Design 2030. The Grip TA5 leverages lessons learned from this work, adding the interoperability and multi-mission capabilities needed to meet requirements for the U.S. Army’s Low Altitude Stalking and Strike Ordinance (LASSO), Long Range Reconnaissance (LRR), and Launched Effects (LE) programs while still maintaining operability with USMC programs, like Marine Air-Ground Tablet (MAGTAB).

The Grip TA5 expands AV’s Tomahawk Ground Control Station product line, which also includes the Grip S20 designed around the Samsung Galaxy S20 Tactical Edition smart phone. Responding to operator feedback for larger screen sizes, the Grip TA5 offers a ruggedized and streamlined, cost-effective solution with an expandable port for dual 8-inch displays to boost visibility and efficiency. The controller will begin shipping as a standard catalog configuration or as an alternative option with AV platforms starting in late 2025.

“Developed for warfighters from warfighter feedback, the Grip TA5 highlights our focus on rapidly turning feedback into real, fielded innovation,” said John Bolen, AV’s Tomahawk GCS Product Line Manager. “By expanding screen size, enhancing networking, and offering scalability across clients, vehicles, and operations, we are giving soldiers a tactical edge on the battlefield.”

Posted in C5ISR, Drone, Press Release, Robotics | Comments Off on AV Expands Tomahawk Line with Future-Ready Grip TA5 Tactical Controller

Milrem Robotics, Overwatch Aerospace, MSI-Defence Systems, and Pearson Engineering Join Forces to Deliver UK-Specific THeMIS Combat UGV

Tuesday, September 9th, 2025

Milrem Robotics, the world’s leading developer of robotic and autonomous systems, along with Overwatch Aerospace Ltd, MSI-Defence Systems Limited (MSI-DS), and Pearson Engineering Limited, has announced the launch of a UK-specific version of the THeMIS Combat Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) at DSEI 2025. This strategic relationship will see the four companies develop, test, demonstrate, and produce the combat-proven THeMIS platform in the United Kingdom, specifically designed to meet the needs of UK customers.

The UK version of the THeMIS Combat UGV will combine Milrem Robotics’ battlefield-proven THeMIS UGV platform with MSI-Defence Systems’ advanced TERRAHAWK Remote Weapon Station (RWS) and Overwatch Aerospace’s innovative APEX Unmanned Aerial System (UAS). Pearson Engineering will contribute its proven expertise in integrating mission-critical capabilities into armoured platforms, ensuring the vehicle is optimised for survivability, mobility, and adaptability to UK operational requirements.
Kuldar Väärsi, CEO of Milrem Robotics, said: “The THeMIS has proven its value in multiple theatres worldwide, and this UK-specific variant will take its capabilities even further. By working with trusted British partners, we deliver an advanced and mission-ready combat system and ensure that development, testing, and production happen here in the UK, creating local value and strengthening domestic defence capabilities.”

Drew Michael, CEO of Overwatch Aerospace Ltd, said: “Integrating our APEX UAS into the THeMIS Combat UGV introduces a completely new dimension to battlefield awareness and adaptability. By merging unmanned ground and aerial capabilities into a unified system, we enable forces to operate more effectively, with improved situational awareness and lower risk to personnel. This collaboration ensures our innovation directly aligns with UK defence priorities.”

Brigadier (ret) Haydn White, Senior Military Adviser at MSI-Defence Systems, stated: “The MSI-DS TERRAHAWK RWS is our fully stabilised remote weapon station, which offers exceptionally precise firepower and situational awareness in a package designed for rapid integration with a wide range of payloads and sensors. Collaborating with Milrem Robotics on this UK-focused UGV demonstrates how the best of British engineering, combined with proven international platforms, can deliver world-class capability to the British Army.”

Ian Bell, CEO of Pearson Engineering Limited, added: “Pearson Engineering will ensure that the THeMIS Combat UGV is adapted perfectly for UK operational environments and that it delivers reliable performance in the most challenging conditions. This partnership highlights our shared commitment to lead the industry into a new era of innovation and safety.”

The program will now move into a comprehensive development and trial phase, with the goal of delivering a deployable, scalable, and enduring robotic combat solution for the British Army.

Posted in Industry, International, Press Release, Robotics | Comments Off on Milrem Robotics, Overwatch Aerospace, MSI-Defence Systems, and Pearson Engineering Join Forces to Deliver UK-Specific THeMIS Combat UGV

xTechHumanoid Competition Militarizes Humanoid Technology for Soldiers

Monday, September 8th, 2025

WASHINGTON— The U.S. Army xTech Program, in coordination with the Joint Humanoid Community of Collaboration, launched the xTechHumanoid competition. With up to $490,000 in cash prizes and $1.25 million in potential follow-on awards, the competition seeks transformative humanoid technologies that enhance warfighter survivability, sustain combat power, and operate effectively in complex, high-risk environments.

xTechHumanoid aims to identify and accelerate the development of prototype militarized humanoids capable of working alongside Soldiers in diverse operational settings. The competition will assess the current state of humanoid technology and evaluate key subsystems—such as artificial intelligence, sensors, and power systems—to identify scalable commercial solutions with near-, mid-, and long-term potential.

Finalists will participate in a live experimentation event with Department of Defense experts and end-users to validate technology readiness, refine system performance, and ensure solutions meet Army mission needs.

xTechHumanoid plays a strategic role in shaping future DOD investments, research and development priorities, and integration pathways for humanoid systems. The competition will also inform doctrine, training, and force structure—ultimately positioning these technologies as force multipliers on the modern battlefield.

Competition Overview

The Army seeks small and large businesses across the globe to participate, engage with DOD experts, and refine their solutions to meet Army needs.

Part One: Concept White Paper (Aug. 6 – Oct. 1, 2025)

Eligible vendors must submit a five-page concept white paper and an optional three-to-five-minute video outlining their technology, viability, and its benefit to the military.
Up to 10 applicants—including up to six white papers for baseline humanoid systems and up to four white papers for advanced humanoid subsystems—will receive $25,000 and an invitation to the next round.

Strategic Collaboration

Selected participants from part one can explore strategic collaborations with fellow finalists or industry partners to help shape innovative humanoid solutions for the finals and beyond. Collaboration remains optional and will not affect selection decisions.

Part Two: Final Experimentation Event (Summer 2026)

Finalists will participate in a live experimentation event in August or September 2026, showcasing their solutions to a panel of Army and DOD experts.
Up to two winners with baseline humanoid systems will receive a prize of $75,000 each, and up to three winners with advanced humanoid subsystems will receive a prize of $30,000 each.
The government may award follow-on contracts to one or more competition winners, with each award drawn from a total funding pool of up to $1.25 million.

Eligibility Requirements

xTechHumanoid is open to nonprofit and for-profit organizations, including large and small businesses, in both domestic and foreign territories. Vendors must obtain a Commercial and Government Entity (CAGE) code or North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Commercial and Government Entity (NCAGE) code to process payments and must be incorporated in and maintain a primary place of business in the U.S. or a foreign country.

Vendors must not be U.S. federal government entities, foreign government entities, or employ a U.S. federal employees acting within the scope of their employment. Additionally, vendors must not currently be under contract, agreement, or providing similar capabilities to the government for related work.

About the Army xTech Program

The Army xTech Program is the Army’s premier tool for scouting and accelerating dual-use technologies that directly enhance Soldier readiness and mission success. Through dynamic prize competitions like xTechSearch, xTech identifies breakthrough solutions and opens doors for nontraditional companies to engage with and deliver capabilities to the Army. Since its launch in 2018, xTech has awarded over $30 million in non-dilutive cash prizes across 45 competitions—fueling innovation pipelines and delivering transformative technologies that matter on the battlefield.

Stay Updated

Subscribe to email updates or check the Army xTech website for the latest information. Follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Flickr. For inquiries, contact the Army xTech mailbox.

By Sarah Hepburn, Office of Army Innovation Programs

Any references to commercial products or services are not, and shall not, be construed as, official Army or DOD endorsements.

Posted in Army, Guest Post, Robotics | 1 Comment »

Skana Robotics Unveils Scalable Maritime Autonomy Designed for Operational Resilience

Monday, September 1st, 2025

The company’s first vessels- Bull Shark (USV) and Stingray (UUV) – introduce software-defined, mission-adaptive capabilities across surface and sub-surface domains

DSEI UK, Spetember 9-12 2025, Booth N11-100

September 01, 2025 – Skana Robotics, a defense-tech company founded by veterans of naval special operations and robotics experts, is introducing the first two platforms of its new class of autonomous maritime systems: the Bull Shark (Autonomous Surface Vessel) and the Stingray (Autonomous Underwater Vessel). These platforms represent a shift toward software-defined, scalable, and operationally flexible naval assets, engineered for teaming with both manned and unmanned systems across distributed maritime operations. With initial orders already secured, Skana is entering the next phase of scaling deployment with operational partners worldwide.

Developed with a focus on mass production, flexibility, and NATO-standard integration, the new platforms are designed to extend naval presence while minimizing logistical footprint and cost. All Skana systems are designed to evolve through code and enable seamless interoperability with existing legacy fleets and allied systems.

Skana’s production methodology removes traditional barriers to naval expansion, enabling allied nations to deploy thousands of autonomous vessels without relying on shipyards or cumbersome manufacturing processes that compromise mission effectiveness. This approach redefines how maritime resilience can be achieved at scale and what a truly self-sustained force structure looks like.

The Bull Shark is a tactical ASV designed for multiple missions including ISR and interdiction. It features a scalable design, a payload capacity of up to 150 kg, and functions as a communications hub to coordinate multiple surface and sub-surface assets.

The Stingray is a loitering AUV designed for ISR, ASW, and infrastructure protection in complex underwater terrains. It supports autonomous underwater navigation, seabed anchoring, silent standby and reactivation mode. It offers a standard 24-hour battery life, extendable through battery module, and can belaunched from a designated underwater docking station, submarines, patrol boats, or other Skana or Naval vessels.

At the heart of Skana’s unmanned fleet is SeaSphere™, Skana’sresource allocation and mission planning engine, and Vera™, a proprietary ROS2-based mission execution and supervision layer. Vera translates fleet-wide directives into localized autonomous actions, adapting to environmental changes in real time. This architecture enables distributed command, unmanned-unmanned collaboration, and real-time teaming with manned platforms.

“The maritime domain demands autonomy that can survive complexity, adapt instantly, and operate without compromise,” said Idan Levy, Co-Founder and CEO of Skana Robotics. “We are making advanced autonomous capabilities accessible and scalable, enabling wide deployment and synergy between systems. Our ecosystem of vessels and technologies supports real-time data sharing, modular reconfiguration, and both fully autonomous and remotely operated missions, offering navies unmatched operational resilience, adaptability, and flexibility.”

For more information, visit: www.skanarobotics.com.

Posted in International, Maritime, Press Release, Robotics | Comments Off on Skana Robotics Unveils Scalable Maritime Autonomy Designed for Operational Resilience

Army Awards Three OTA Agreements for UxS Autonomy

Saturday, August 30th, 2025

Today*, the U.S. Army awarded three Unmanned Systems (UxS) Autonomy agreements to Forterra (Clarksburg, Md.), Overland AI, Inc. (Seattle, Wa.) and Scout AI, Inc. (Sunnyvale, Ca.) to rapidly integrate and deliver commercial autonomous mobility into Army formations. The total award value for all agreements is approximately $15.5 million.

Under these agreements, each awardee will integrate their commercial autonomy solutions onto existing Army Infantry Support Vehicles (ISVs) and deliver prototypes to Army Soldiers for demonstration and evaluation in May 2026.

“We are looking forward to seeing how our industry partner’s autonomy solutions perform on vehicles while performing relevant military missions,” said Col. Ken Bernier, project manager, Future Battle Platforms “We remain committed to bringing the best technologies to our warfighters and shaping the future of autonomous mobility for our Army at an unprecedented speed.”

These demonstrations and evaluations will inform future Army decisions on the applicability of autonomous and unmanned systems across the force and could have the potential to directly transfer successful capabilities to a variety of other ground vehicle platforms.

“This effort will serve as an opportunity for the Army to assess the reliability of commercial autonomy and their ability to deliver real operational value to Soldiers in the field,” said Bernier.

By Ashley John

* published on 27 August.

Posted in Army, Guest Post, Robotics | Comments Off on Army Awards Three OTA Agreements for UxS Autonomy

US Army Seeks Sources for Unmanned Ground Commercial Robotic Vehicles (UGCRV)

Friday, August 22nd, 2025

In an announcement to industry last week, the US Army informed states gay they plan to issue a Request for Information Detroit Arsenal Innovation (DAI) Other Transaction Agreement (OTA), seeking industry’s interest in the development and production of a Unmanned Ground Commercial Robotic Vehicle (UGCRV) and to understand the experience and capability of potential vendors. Please contact NAMC directly for the RFI at Questions@NAMConsortium.org.

The UGCRV is desired to be a robot with autonomous capabilities. The USG intends to obtain prototypes and ancillary equipment sufficient to conduct a limited operational assessment.

The DAI OTA was entered into between the Army Contracting Command (ACC) and the National Advanced Mobility Consortium (NAMC) on 01 September 2023, in support of coordinated research and development projects designed to accelerate streamlining and upgrading of Ground Vehicle System Related Research and Development prototype projects. The Government will utilize the DAI OTA to award this effort.

Click here for additional information.

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