Milrem Robotics Unveils Groundbreaking Type-X RCV Innovation

The medium class Type-X Robotic Combat Vehicle, engineered by the prominent European robotics and autonomous systems innovator Milrem Robotics, successfully completed its preliminary mobility assessments.

Unveiled in the summer of the previous year, the Type-X RCV is engineered to enhance the capabilities of mechanized units.

This advanced Type-X serves as a smart ally to main battle tanks and infantry combat vehicles, adept at undertaking the most perilous assignments and positions, which lowers the risk of lethality.

“The Type-X is set to deliver equal or superior firepower and tactical application compared to units equipped with Infantry Fighting Vehicles. It offers the ability to breach enemy fortifications while minimizing risks to our personnel; replacing a lost RCV is merely a logistical consideration,” stated Kuldar Väärsi, CEO of Milrem Robotics.

The Type-X can be outfitted with a cannon of up to 50 mm. Even with a 30 mm cannon, the RCV is airdroppable – the C-130J and KC-390 can transport one Type-X, while an A400M can carry two, and a C-17 can accommodate five.

“The vehicle will feature intelligent capabilities such as follow-me modes, waypoint navigation, and obstacle detection, with Artificial Intelligence integrated into the algorithms,” Väärsi remarked. “Moreover, Milrem Robotics’ software engineers have embraced a completely new and innovative methodology to enable remote-controlled operations at elevated speeds.”

With a lightweight of just 12 tons, the Type-X boasts high power output and efficient power management, offering exceptional terrain proficiency, alongside a compact height of 2.2 m and a rear-mounted engine that minimizes visual and thermal signatures.

Furthermore, the Type-X is roughly three to four times lighter, and its cost is markedly lower compared to traditional IFVs. It features intelligent predictive maintenance paired with a Health and Usage Monitoring System and Line Replacement Unit principle to guarantee a low Through Lifecycle Cost and minimal logistical footprint. Additionally, its hybrid powertrain and rubber tracks will considerably diminish lifecycle expenses.

For the development of the Type-X RCV, Milrem Robotics leveraged insights gained from the creation of its flagship product, the THeMIS Unmanned Ground Vehicle, designed to aid dismounted troops, which has already been adopted by ten countries, seven of which are NATO members.