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The US is developing technology that can transform ordinary military vehicles into fully autonomous robot trucks. This innovation could revolutionize the logistics and security of military operations, reducing risks for soldiers in conflict zones.
Washington-based artificial intelligence company Overland AI has announced the launch of SPARK, an autonomous solution for military ground vehicles. The new solution promises to transform existing fleets into fully autonomous platforms without the need for new systems.
Solution for existing vehicles
SPARK works by integrating OverDrive software with hardware already present in military vehicles. According to Overland AI, this approach allows for rapid deployment, meeting the needs of United States military fleets.
Byron Boots, co-founder and CEO of Overland AI, highlighted the importance of the technology to the US Department of Defense. “By integrating SPARK, DOD and other government departments can transform their existing fleets into autonomous ground vehicles, quickly and at scale.“, he said. He stressed that the solution provides tactical advantages in dynamic military scenarios.
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Evolved Military Vehicles: Technology and Features
SPARK features sensors such as LiDAR and stereo cameras, which create a detailed image of the environment around military vehicles. This ensures 24-hour monitoring, even in adverse weather conditions.
A compact module processes sensor data in real time, ensuring reliability in critical missions.
Another unique feature of the system is drive-by-wire, which allows autonomous operation without compromising manual control. Overland AI says SPARK can be installed on most ground vehicles with minimal mechanical modifications. The system also monitors the vehicle’s status to ensure its operational readiness.
Operation in critical environments
In military contexts, SPARK is designed to operate in scenarios where GPS can be denied and communication compromised. The system offers encrypted connectivity through Starlink, tactical mesh, LTE and Wi-Fi, ensuring data transmission even in contested areas.
Greg Okopal, Chief Operating Officer at Overland AI, noted that autonomous vehicles increase troop safety by allowing a single operator to control multiple vehicles remotely. “Autonomous vehicles are force multipliers that allow a single operator to control multiple vehicles, all while staying out of harm’s way. Our troops deserve access to this technology in a matter of days, not years.“He said.
OverDrive, Overland AI’s proprietary technology, is designed for complex and contested environments. The system eliminates the need for detailed maps and enables military vehicles to operate in harsh terrains such as mud, ice, snow and sand.
If adopted by the armed forces, SPARK could transform military logistics, improving efficiency and security in conflict zones. In addition, the solution can be used in a variety of applications, increasing the operational flexibility of military fleets.
With information from Interesting Engineering.
