The Kodiak Driver, a “smart” self-driving system developed by Kodiak Robotics, Inc. has been integrated into the RIPSAW M3 robotic vehicle from Textron Systems Corp. The two firms, which are seeking to increase the use of automation in military ground vehicles, hope to satisfy many robotic vehicle needs of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and allied nations. Together, the self-driving system and the robotic vehicle form an advanced uncrewed ground vehicle capable of handling the harshest military missions and responding rapidly to changing conditions.
Kodiak’s dual-use technology employed in the autonomous Kodiak Driver represents its first use in an autonomous tracked vehicle, specifically a vehicle without room for a human driver. David Phillips, Senior Vice-President of Land, Air, and Sea Systems for Textron Systems, explains that “the RIPSAW M3 equipped with the Kodiak Driver is a transformative solution for military ground operations.” He adds: “Our collaboration will not only enhance the U.S. military’s ability to execute complex and high-risk missions, but also provides a critical tool for keeping personnel out of harm’s way.” Concerning working with Kodiak, Philips says: “This collaboration will help redefine, and perhaps accelerate, the future of uncrewed military ground vehicles, offering unparalleled capabilities and mission-readiness.”
Development of the autonomous RIPSAW M3 vehicle with Kodiak Driver (see figure) demonstrates teamwork between a leading supplier of military ground vehicles and Kodiak with its unique artificial intelligence (AI) technology. A RIPSAW M3 vehicle with Kodiak Driver can perform many military missions, including reconnaissance, surveillance, and tactical maneuvers across a wide range of terrains. By integrating its modular DefensePods into each corner of a RIPSAW M3 vehicle, full 360° visual detection is possible while maintaining low vehicle profile. Concerning the teamwork, Kodiak’s founder and chief executive officer (CE), Don Burnette, noted: “Kodiak is building the world’s most capable and flexible autonomous system. No other autonomous system can drive everywhere, from on-highway to off-road, providing unique value to customers across the defense, trucking, and industrial industries. By collaborating with Textron Systems, we can offer unparalleled support to the warfighter at the speed of relevance.”
