BAE Systems Australia has introduced its next-generation 8×8 unmanned ground system for autonomous and semi-autonomous combat support operations.
The Autonomous Tactical Light Armour System (ATLAS) is built for on and off-road maneuvers to increase a force’s lethality and complement their corresponding crewed systems, including infantry fighting vehicles and main battle tanks “at lower costs.”
The platform’s design supports future configurations and upgrades to address users’ requirements against modern threats.
BAE noted that the ATLAS’ “high levels of autonomy” allows the vehicle to plan navigation, avoid obstacles, and process tactical decisions in addition to its self-drive function.
“We’ve developed the ATLAS vehicle to give soldiers the advantage on the modern battlefield,” BAE Systems Australia Defence Delivery Managing Director Andrew Gresham explained.
“This has resulted in an autonomous platform that will deliver the dull, dirty and dangerous tasks expected in a combat environment. It will help the soldier outpace, out-manoeuvre and out-think conventional and unconventional threats.”
“We have proven expertise in autonomous technologies, built on more than 30 years of complex autonomous projects. We’re excited that this is the first [unmanned ground vehicle] of its kind to be developed in Australia and look forward to working with our industry partners to deliver this capability for our customers.”
BAE Systems ATLAS
The ATLAS has chassis and hull components based on the Supacat HMT family of tactical vehicles.
Its armor is customizable depending on the customer’s overall mass specifications, while its internal suite incorporates sensors, thermal imaging devices, passive electronic warfare, and cameras with stereo vision.
The system’s compartments can transport “up to several tonnes” of payload such as ammunition, fuel, rations, water, and other tactical equipment.
The ATLAS has an automated medium-caliber turret with a firing range of up to 2,500 meters (8,202 feet) and an M242 Bushmaster 25-millimeter chain gun, which is also found in Light Armored Vehicles, Bradley Fighting Vehicles, and naval mounts.
It is powered by a Cummins ISB six-cylinder, 6.7-liter engine, and an Allison 3000 automatic transmission.
