“IDV Secures Three-Year NSPA Contract for Cutting-Edge RAS Concept Development and Experimentation”
The initiative mandates IDV to integrate Uncrewed Ground Vehicles (UGVs) and Uncrewed Air Systems (UAS), harmonized and managed within a unified advanced interoperable Command and Control (C2) framework distributed across predetermined network nodes, to provide cohesive RAS capabilities in intricate real-world combat situations. The operational concepts and utilization of the RAS solutions will be formulated alongside end users through a series of tactical scenarios to demonstrate the transformative advantages of a unified RAS solution.
Under the guidance of IDV, this demanding initiative unites a consortium of leading technology providers from NATO member nations with complementary RAS capabilities. This includes IDV, showcasing advanced land autonomy solutions comprising the industry-leading VIKING UGV and the Optionally Uncrewed Light Multirole Vehicle (LMV OU) – a well-regarded adaptable platform that can be operated manually, remotely controlled, or autonomously driven, each equipped with various mission payloads. Besides IDV, the initiative also sees contributions from LEM, SIRALAB, and REBEL ALLIANCE, all prominent firms in offering cutting-edge technological solutions.
Tests involving users from the Italian Army and NATO Armed Forces will validate how the systems and frameworks can create operational advantages and enhance mission effectiveness, efficiency, and reduce risk to personnel, while concurrently refining operational doctrines on the battlefield. Initial scenarios will encompass Resupply, CASEVAC, Forward MEDEVAC, Lines of Communication Route Reconnaissance, Intelligence Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance (ISTAR), and Manned/Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) Convoy and Recovery.
This effort seeks to delineate RAS strategies and to outline actionable roadmaps for the integration of RAS technology into service.
NSPA serves as NATO’s primary organization for multinational acquisition, support, and sustainment across all domains. The Agency connects industry and nations to identify the most cost-effective and efficient solutions, whether for national or collective defense. NSPA is based in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, with major operational hubs located in France, Hungary, and Italy.
