Ground Robotics

The Ground Robotics program (PE 0605053A) is a comprehensive Army research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) initiative focused on advancing autonomous and robotic capabilities for ground forces. The program's overarching goal is to support the Army Transformation Initiative (ATI) by modernizing ground maneuver warfare through the integration of robotics and autonomous systems across infantry, armor, engineer, and sustainment formations. The budget request for FY 2026 reflects a significant increase, emphasizing the consolidation of robotics efforts to improve efficiency and accelerate modernization, particularly in support of the Army's Next Generation Command and Control (NGC2) initiative.

Robotic Payloads (BS9) is a project within Ground Robotics that focuses on developing modular, open-architecture payloads for unmanned ground systems to enhance standoff, situational awareness, and hazard response capabilities. The Enhanced Robotic Payload - Unmanned Ground Systems (ERP-UGS) program supports platforms such as the Man Transportable Robotic Systems Increment II and Common Robotic System - Heavy. These payloads, including the Extended Range Mesh Network and Pan/Tilt Imager, are designed to address current and emerging Engineer, CBRN, and EOD requirements. While no new funding is requested for BS9 in FY 2026, prior efforts included acquisition, integration, and testing of these payloads, with an acquisition strategy emphasizing competitive selection and system-level integration.

Robotics Architecture (FB3) is the central line item for FY 2026, receiving the majority of the funding. Its primary objectives are to develop and manage interoperability standards, modular payload interfaces, common software, and architecture for all Army robotics and autonomous platforms. This line funds rapid prototyping and the engineering of solutions for infantry, armor, engineer, and sustainment formations. Specific focus areas include the development of platform-agnostic autonomous mobility solutions, integration of Modular Mission Payloads, and the creation of common control and software interoperability frameworks. The acquisition strategy leverages rapid prototyping, Other Transaction Authority agreements, and open competition to maximize innovation and minimize costs.

Within Robotics Architecture, several targeted development efforts are underway. For infantry formations, the program is engineering robotic systems to support resupply, communications, and mission payload integration. For armor formations, the goal is to develop unmanned systems capable of initial contact and supporting manned maneuver in complex terrain. Engineer formation efforts focus on unmanned systems for mobility, counter-mobility, and survivability tasks, such as breaching and obstacle reduction. Sustainment formation projects aim to enable autonomous resupply and casualty evacuation beyond the Brigade Support Area, enhancing operational reach and efficiency.

Squad Multipurpose Equipment Transport (SMET, FB6) is designed to provide dismounted infantry with remote-controlled cargo transport and power generation, reducing soldier load and increasing mission endurance. SMET Increment II, which entered the Engineering and Manufacturing Development phase in FY 2024, aims to deliver vehicles capable of carrying significant loads for extended periods and generating offload power. FY 2025 funding supports prototype development, integration of Modular Mission Payloads, and technical insertions, with future requirements realigned to Robotics Architecture for FY 2026 and beyond. The acquisition approach emphasizes competition and a Modular Open Systems Architecture to facilitate future upgrades.

Common Robotic Controller (FG8) supports the Robotic and Autonomous Command and Control software program, which is critical for unifying command and control across the Army's robotic and autonomous vehicle portfolio, including Next Generation Combat Vehicle, Optionally Manned Fighting Vehicle, and Robotic Combat Vehicle. This software provides a common information system for Brigade and below, improving situational awareness and enabling multi-domain operations. The program follows a modular software acquisition pathway, with iterative capability releases and integration into operational environments. The approach is designed to maintain open competition, leverage commercial and government off-the-shelf software, and ensure compliance with Army standards for interoperability and sustainment.