The US Army expects replenishment in April this year. General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS) will supply several MUTT wheeled transport robots. The robots will pass the final tests under realistic conditions. If successful, by the end of 2021, the first American unit will accept robo-recruits.
Porter Robot
Not much is known about the robot now. It is only clear that the system is designed not only for carrying things. The robot has much more capabilities: it can be used for observation, target detection and reconnaissance. The configuration allows you to add modules to it for a quick change of functionality. The MUTT has a durable, lightweight and inexpensive design, low thermal and noise characteristics. Several configurations of the robot chassis will be available - 4x4, 6x6, 8x8 - for both wheels and tracks.
Key features of MUTT:
- Carrying capacity - up to 454 kg.
- Maximum length 295 cm with 8x8 chassis configuration.
- It operates autonomously for 72 hours, during this time the distance is up to 97 km.
- Generates up to 3 kWh of electricity during shutdown.
- Generates up to 1 kWh of electricity to recharge portable gadgets while driving.
- Works in two modes: stand-alone and controlled.
characteristics are impressive, especially if we imagine that we are not talking about one soldier, but small-scale production of a new type of robots for the army. Production is scheduled to start in September after the final tests.
It is assumed that autonomous and multifunctional robots will be able to increase the endurance of the American army, as well as increase the mobility of military units.
How else can you use MUTT?
- as a basis for installing a controlled combat module;
- as a platform for launching spy drones;
- instead of ambulance brigades for the evacuation of the wounded;
- as robotic porters for transporting equipment, water, ammunition and provisions.
GDLS director of business development in the United States Tim Rees notes that some of the tasks of the army are best performed with the help of MUTT, without risking the lives and health of the soldiers.
What else is known
The GDLS MUTT robot has been long awaited in the US Army. The selection was based on the results of a tender in 2017 for the Small Multipurpose Equipment Transport (SMET) program. Together with the robot infantryman, the military was offered other technical solutions from different companies. The Army considered robotic versions of the MRZR wheeled buggy, the WOLF wheeled robot and the RS2-H1 tracked vehicle.
Initially, the cost of the contract for the creation of an all-wheel drive vehicle for the army was$ 162.4 million. The cost includes not only the creation of machines, but also user training and technical support. The planned completion date of the program is October 2024.
Under the contract, GDLS is to produce and deliver 624 vehicles. The original request was to create a combat vehicle capable of carrying 1,000 pounds or 454 kg. Why so much weight? It is equivalent to a load that can be carried by 9 soldiers in an infantry squad. In addition, the US Army needed a robot capable of covering a distance of 97 km in 3 days. The final performance matches the original request and even exceeds it.
