In a groundbreaking display of technological advancement, the U.S. Marines, in collaboration with the Marine Corps Warfighting Lab and civilian experts, recently conducted an unmanned convoy using Expeditionary Modular Autonomous Vehicles (EMAV). Held at the Marine Corps Air-Ground Combat Center in Twentynine Palms, California, on October 21, 2023, this exercise marked a pivotal moment in the realm of defense and security.
The EMAV convoy embarked on a 50-kilometer journey into the training area, showcasing the remarkable autonomous capabilities of these tactical vehicles and their immense potential on the modern battlefield. With each passing milestone, a new era of defense unfolds, emphasizing the adaptability and effectiveness of EMAV in various operational scenarios.
Pratt Miller, the esteemed designer and builder of the EMAV, painstakingly collaborated with partners to develop the vehicle’s autonomy layer and advanced navigation capabilities. This fruitful partnership has resulted in a high-mobility tracked unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) specifically tailored to meet the demanding requirements of the U.S. Marine Corps.
What sets the EMAV apart is its awe-inspiring mobility. Its continuous band track and low center of gravity enable it to conquer a 60% grade, a 40% side slope, and vertical steps up to 24 inches, providing the Marines with unparalleled maneuverability on challenging terrains. The vehicle’s hybrid-electric powertrain supports electric-only silent watch and mobility, enhancing its tactical versatility.
Equally impressive is the EMAV’s practicality. Compatible with multiple controllers and offering dimensions that facilitate transportation by various aircraft, such as the MV22, CH53, CH-47 internal transport, and even up to two vehicles on a C-130, the EMAV proves to be a versatile and easily deployable asset for the Marine Corps.
The unanimously successful unmanned convoy during Exercise Apollo Shield attests to the Marine Corps’ unwavering commitment to explore and integrate cutting-edge technologies that enhance their operational capabilities. As the dawn of a new era emerges, the strategic integration of advanced autonomous vehicles like the EMAV will undoubtedly reshape the landscape of defense and security, ensuring a safer future for all.