AM General unveiled an unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) at the Association of the U.S. Army (AUSA) Global Force Symposium in Huntsville, Alabama. The autonomous platform, developed with Carnegie Robotics and Textron Systems, targets military logistics gaps between brigade support areas and forward-deployed units. A demonstrator is currently undergoing testing ahead of an expected Army request for proposal later this year.
Highlights
- Autonomous logistics platform: The UGV operates autonomously to resupply dispersed units, perform medevac missions, and deploy smaller unmanned vehicles on the battlefield.
- Multi-partner development: Carnegie Robotics provides the autonomy stack and modular hardware, while Textron Systems supplies the software control layer connecting operator intent to robotic execution.
- New powertrain: A turbocharged 6.5L 8-cylinder diesel engine produces 250 hp and over 550 lb-ft of torque, with common rail direct injection for fuel-flexible performance.
- Modular mission design: The vehicle features a reconfigurable cargo deck, wireless remote-controlled T-boom service crane, and L-track cargo fastening system.
Platform Design and Mission Sets
The UGV is built around a reconfigurable cargo deck that supports multiple mission profiles. These include autonomous resupply runs, medical evacuation, and deployment of attritable small UGVs. At the AUSA show, the vehicle carried the FireAnt sUGV from Swarmbotics AI. That system is a low-cost unmanned ground vehicle designed to extend situational awareness in high-risk environments.
A wireless remote-controlled T-boom service crane handles loading and unloading tasks. Additionally, the L-track modular cargo fastening system allows rapid reconfiguration between missions.
Autonomy and Control Architecture
Carnegie Robotics developed the autonomy stack powering the UGV. Leo Agafonov, Director of Technical Operations at Carnegie Robotics, said the partnership integrates “low-cost autonomy stack and modular hardware kit” to accelerate deployment of unmanned systems.
Textron Systems provides the hardware and software control layer. Sara Willett, Vice President of Programs at Textron Systems, said the control layer uses commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) technology to deliver “reliable, consistent performance for autonomous ground vehicles operating in challenging environments.”
New Powertrain With Broader Applications
The UGV runs on a new turbocharged 6.5L 8-cylinder engine featuring common rail direct injection. The powerplant produces 250 hp and more than 550 lb-ft of torque. AM General confirmed this engine will also underpin future light tactical vehicles, including updated versions of the HUMVEE platform.
Incoming AM General President and CEO John Chadbourne called the UGV a significant capability for Army logistics needs. He added that the platform demonstrates what collaborative industry initiatives can deliver.
Army Procurement Timeline
AM General is currently testing a UGV demonstrator. The company expects the Army to release a formal request for proposal later this year. The program represents AM General’s push into autonomous military vehicle development alongside its established tactical vehicle portfolio.
Sign up for our weekly emails to stay up to date on the latest news!
