Technology Development for Army Unmanned Ground Vehicles

Unmanned ground vehicles (UGV) are expected to play a key role in the Army's Objective Force structure. These UGVs would be used for weapons platforms, logistics carriers, and reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition among other things. To examine aspects of the Army's UGV program, assess technology readiness, and identify key issues in implementing UGV systems, among other questions, the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army for Research and Technology asked the National Research Council (NRC) to conduct a study of UGV technologies. This report discusses UGV operational requirements, current development efforts, and technology integration and roadmaps to the future. Key recommendations are presented addressing technical content, time lines, and milestones for the UGV efforts.Table of ContentsFront MatterExecutive Summary1. Introduction2. Operational and Technical Requirements3. Review of Current UGV Efforts4. Autonomous Behavior Technologies5. Supporting Technologies6. Technology Integration7. Roadmaps to the Future8. Findings and RecommendationsReferencesAppendix A: Committee Member Biographical SketchesAppendix B: Meetings and ActivitiesAppendix C: Autonomous MobilityAppendix D: Historical Perspective