Better prepared Daimler Truck and ARX Robotics digitize military vehicles

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Daimler Truck AG

GGB Heilbronn GmbH

Daimler Truck and ARX Robotics are now pursuing a strategic partnership in the defense industry.

Daimler Truck and ARX Robotics have signed a memorandum of understanding to better focus on defense projects, as has now been announced. The aim is to jointly drive forward the next generation of digital development in the field of military vehicles. To this end, the two specialists intend to integrate robotics and AI technology (AI = artificial intelligence) from ARX Robotics into Daimler Truck vehicle platforms in the future. This should result in greater networking, operational capability and efficiency of the vehicles in an emergency, according to the statement.

Defense against cyberattacks and autonomous logistics in the field

In particular, the military vehicle variants of the Unimog and Zetros model series, which the Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks organizational unit in Wörth am Rhein develops, produces and sells, are to be equipped with sensor and software modules plus AI functions in line with the objective. The focus here is on closer networking, operation via teleoperation and autonomous off-road driving. These digital innovations are based on the Mithra OS operating system from ARX Robotics. The Munich-based start-up ARX is also regarded as a leader in autonomous, ground-based systems. This will take Daimler Truck's off-road vehicles to a new level of functionality. However, the partnership should not only bear fruit for the German Armed Forces, as the whole of Europe is being looked at.

Military operations without risk of occupation

The military vehicle fleets are to be given the ability to network with other software-defined systems through equipment upgrades and the integration of the Mithra OS operating system. For example, compatible vehicles or drones are being considered. This would make it easier and better to coordinate the military operations of the various units. This is particularly important in so-called multi-domain operations. These are operations that take place simultaneously on the ground and in the air. ARX Core - a central computing and networking unit that is to be installed in the vehicles - is the technological heart of the system. It allows various sensors, cameras and radio systems to be installed more easily. ARX explains that this will enable object recognition and fast data acquisition - along with the transmission of the same - in conjunction with artificial intelligence. The vehicles will then be able to autonomously find the best route in the terrain to a defined location, carry out remote-controlled mine clearance or evacuate injured people from high-risk areas without endangering crew members. Initially, the Zetros is to be equipped with this system. After initial experience, the Unimog is being considered.