Tactical Unmanned Ground Vehicle (TUGV)

The Tactical Unmanned Ground Vehicle (TUGV) program, with a focus on the Robotic Combat Vehicle (RCV), is dedicated to advancing unmanned ground combat vehicles for the Army. This initiative has shifted from multiple vehicle variants to a unified approach using a common chassis. The primary aim is to develop prototypes that will inform operational concepts and tactics, enhance capabilities through advanced autonomy and artificial intelligence, and support the development of robotic and autonomous systems doctrine. This effort aligns with the Next Generation Combat Vehicle (NGCV) Army Modernization Priority.

The RCV program consists of two main components: the Middle-Tier Acquisition Rapid Prototyping (MTA-RP) and the Software Acquisition Pathway (SWP). The MTA-RP focuses on developing surrogate and full system prototypes, as well as manned control vehicles, to test and refine capabilities. These efforts include iterative design-upgrade-test cycles that integrate software updates and gather Soldier feedback through operational pilots. The objective is to validate user requirements, finalize capability documents, and inform force design considerations.

The SWP component emphasizes software development for autonomy, control stations, and payload management. A system integration laboratory supports testing in virtual and live environments to ensure robust software capabilities. Feedback from Soldiers and integrators is incorporated into product roadmaps to guide software maturation. The SWP aims to deliver annual software capability releases that enhance autonomous mobility across various terrains while ensuring safety and cyber resiliency.

The TUGV program seeks to enhance human-machine integration by leveraging early feedback from Soldiers, reducing acquisition risks, and ensuring that developed technologies meet operational needs. Through competitive acquisition strategies involving multiple vendors, the program aims to deliver effective prototypes for further testing and potential fielding decisions. The ultimate goal is to integrate these advanced systems into military operations, enhancing battlefield situational awareness and effectiveness.