“IDV Clinches Three-Year NSPA Deal to Pioneer Innovative RAS Concept Development and Testing”
The program requires IDV to incorporate Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs) and Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), synchronized and overseen within a cohesive advanced interoperable Command and Control (C2) structure distributed across designated network nodes, to deliver integrated RAS functionalities in complex real-world combat scenarios. The operational frameworks and application of RAS solutions will be crafted alongside end-users through a series of tactical exercises to showcase the transformative benefits of a unified RAS solution.
Under IDV’s leadership, this challenging project brings together a consortium of premier technology providers from NATO member nations, each contributing complementary RAS capabilities. This consortium includes IDV, highlighting cutting-edge land autonomy solutions such as the industry-leading VIKING UGV and the Optionally Uncrewed Light Multirole Vehicle (LMV OU) – a versatile platform capable of manual operation, remote control, or autonomous navigation, each outfitted with various mission payloads. In addition to IDV, the initiative also involves contributions from LEM, SIRALAB, and REBEL ALLIANCE, all esteemed firms renowned for delivering innovative technological solutions.
Evaluations involving personnel from the Italian Army and NATO Armed Forces will assess how the systems and frameworks can forge operational advantages, boost mission efficiency, and mitigate risks to personnel, while simultaneously refining operational doctrines on the battlefield. Initial scenarios will include Resupply, CASEVAC, Forward MEDEVAC, Lines of Communication Route Reconnaissance, Intelligence Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance (ISTAR), and Manned/Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) for Convoy and Recovery operations.
This initiative aims to delineate RAS strategies and to establish actionable blueprints for the incorporation of RAS technology into active service.
NSPA functions as NATO’s primary agency for multinational procurement, support, and sustainment across various domains. The Agency links industry and nations to pinpoint the most economical and efficient solutions, whether for national or collective defense. NSPA is headquartered in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, with major operational facilities situated in France, Hungary, and Italy.
